How to Connect to the N: Drive While Remote

Overview

This article will go over the process of mapping/connecting to the JMU N: Drive while off-campus.

Environment

N: Drive, Windows, MacOS

Troubleshooting/Resolution

JMU-Owned Windows PC:

If you are on a Windows computer that was set up by JMU IT, you are able to access your N:/ Drive remotely using a service called DirectAccess. DirectAccess should be automatically enabled on your computer; to check this:

  1. In the Windows search field on the bottom of your desktop's screen
  2. Search for DirectAccess Settings and click it
  3. If the settings window that appears says "Connected", DirectAccess is functional.
  4. If the window says "Connecting" instead of "Connected" please contact the Help Desk at 540-568-3555 for assistance.

As long as Direct Access is connected, you can access JMU-hosted systems as you would on campus.

Windows (Non-JMU Owned):

Note that you will need to use JMU's VPN Client (Palo Alto Global Protect) if not on campus, and you will need to have completed the request for off-campus access to the N:/Drive prior to attempting access.

  1. Open File Explorer
  2. Select This PC
  3. Select the Computer tab (or three dots) at the top of the page
  4. Select Map Network Drive
  5. Verify that Reconnect at sign-in is unchecked
  6. Verify that Connect using different credentials is checked
  7. Select the drive to N: and enter the following:
    • \\ad.jmu.edu\it-file
  8. Enter JMUAD\"eID" as the username
  9. Enter your eID password and click OK

Apple (MacOS):

Note: - For JMU-Owned Macs, there is an option to Connect to N: Drive found within JMU Self Service. You will need to use JMU's VPN Client if not on campus, and you will need to have completed the request for off-campus access to the N:/Drive prior to attempting access.

On a personal Mac:

  1. Click on Finder in the dock.
  2. In the upper left-hand corner, you should now see Finder next to the Apple Icon.
  3. Select Go from that menu bar.
  4. Choose Connect to Server from the list
  5. Another box will appear. In the Server Address field, type:
    1. smb://ad.jmu.edu   
  6. Click Connect
  7. Enter your JMU eID and password.    
  8. Click Connect
  9. Your drive will now appear. You will be able to see your department listing, as well as your user folder

Note that you will need to use JMU's VPN Client if not on campus, and you will need to have completed the request for off-campus access to the N:/Drive prior to attempting access.

Additional Information or Notes

For additional questions you can contact the JMU IT Help Desk at helpdesk@jmu.edu or 540-568-3555.

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