How to Fix Windows 7 NAS Drive Problems

How to Fix Windows 7 NAS Drive Problems
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NAS Drive Problems

Network attached storage (NAS) drives allow multiple computers to access the same data from a central location. Unfortunately, Windows 7 occasionally has problems accessing the data stored on a NAS drive. These problems may range from an inability to log in to the drive using the proper network credentials to only having access to a portion of the files or folders that the drive contains. Most Windows 7 problems with NAS drives are easy to fix, but before you can fix them you have to know what causes the problem in the first place. This makes it much easier to fix Windows 7 NAS drive problems, and discovering the cause is generally a matter of simply knowing where to look.

Potential Problems

Being in a Windows 7 HomeGroup can cause NAS drive problems in some circumstances.

Before you can fix Windows 7 NAS drive problems it’s useful to know what the potential causes of the problem might be. Applying a systematic approach to troubleshooting lets you eliminate the most likely causes first so that you can get to the root of the problem more quickly. Begin by checking your Windows 7 HomeGroup settings. If the NAS drive is an older model or if there are other computers on the network which aren’t running Windows 7 then being in a HomeGroup could cause NAS drive problems. You should also check any third-party firewall software that you have installed on your computer to make sure that it isn’t blocking access to the NAS drive. You should also check the firmware version of your router and of the NAS drive itself to ensure that you aren’t using outdated networking equipment that isn’t compatible with Windows 7. Taking the time to check these items will give you a better idea of where to start when trying to fix your Windows 7 NAS drive problems.

Fixing the Problem

To fix Windows 7 NAS drive problems, begin by trying to fix the most likely cause of the problem first. If the firmware for your NAS drive or network equipment is out of date, download updated firmware from the equipment manufacturer’s website and update the drive or router. Unblock access to the network or the NAS drive if you find exceptions or logs which indicate that the software firewall on your computer is preventing you from making use of the drive. Disconnect from your HomeGroup if your computer is the only Windows 7 computer on your network. Keep in mind that you may have to reboot your computer or unplug and reconnect the router or NAS drive before the changes you make will fully take effect.

Image Credits: Screenshots by J. Edward Casteele