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Fix Synology NAS Not Showing in Windows File Explorer

Synology NAS Not Showing in Windows File Explorer: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

When a Synology NAS fails to appear in Windows File Explorer, it disrupts file access and workflow. This issue is usually caused by misconfigurations in network settings, firewalls, or SMB protocol compatibility. Below is a detailed step-by-step troubleshooting guide that ensures your NAS becomes visible and accessible again.

Check Basic Network Connectivity

Before diving into advanced fixes, confirm that your Synology NAS is properly connected.

  • Ensure the NAS and your Windows computer are on the same local area network (LAN) and subnet.

  • Verify that the Ethernet cables and switch/router ports are functioning. Swap with another cable to rule out defects.

  • Ping the NAS IP address from your Windows machine to confirm connectivity:

ping [NAS_IP_address]

If ping fails, troubleshoot your router or DHCP configuration. For a detailed walkthrough on troubleshooting and ensuring stable performance, visit Check Basic Network Connectivity: essential steps for reliable connections. 

Enable SMB Protocol on Synology NAS

Windows relies on SMB (Server Message Block) to discover and access network shares.

  1. Log in to Synology DSM.

  2. Navigate to: Control Panel > File Services > SMB.

  3. Ensure Enable SMB service is checked.

  4. Under Advanced Settings, confirm compatibility with SMB2 or later.

  5. Apply settings and restart your NAS.

Tip: If your environment requires legacy applications, temporarily enable SMB1, but it is not recommended due to security vulnerabilities.

Configure Windows Network Discovery Settings

Your Windows PC must be allowed to see network devices.

  1. Open Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.

  2. Select Change advanced sharing settings.

  3. Turn on:

    • Network Discovery

    • File and Printer Sharing

  4. Save changes and restart your PC.

This ensures that Windows actively scans for devices, such as your Synology NAS.

Adjust Firewall and Security Software

Firewalls and antivirus suites often block NAS visibility.

  • Temporarily disable the firewall or security software on your Windows system to test.

  • If the NAS becomes visible, create an exception rule for SMB and Synology Assistant.

  • Check router-level firewalls for blocked ports. Synology NAS primarily uses ports 137–139 and 445 for SMB traffic.

Map the NAS Drive Manually in Windows

Even if auto-discovery fails, you can still connect directly.

  1. Open File Explorer.

  2. Right-click This PC > Map network drive.

  3. Enter the NAS path:

\\NAS_IP\shared_folder

  1. Enter NAS credentials and save.

  2. The mapped drive will now appear as a regular folder in File Explorer.

Verify DNS and Hostname Resolution

Sometimes Windows cannot resolve the NAS hostname.

  • Access NAS directly via its IP address instead of its hostname.

  • Add a manual entry in the Windows hosts file.

Update Firmware and Windows

  • Ensure the Synology DSM firmware is up to date.

  • Apply the latest Windows updates, as SMB protocol patches frequently resolve compatibility issues.

Use the Synology Assistant Tool

Synology provides Synology Assistant, a desktop utility that scans your network for NAS devices.

  • Download from Synology’s official site.

  • Install and run the tool.

  • It will display your NAS, allowing you to connect directly or mount shared folders.

If your Synology NAS still doesn’t show up in Windows File Explorer, the best approach is to rely on a direct IP-based connection and use Synology Assistant for reliable detection. Regular updates, proper firewall rules, and correct SMB settings are the long-term fixes to maintain seamless NAS visibility.

About Epis Technology

At Epis Technology, we specialize in delivering advanced Synology NAS consulting, setup, and network optimization services. Our experts ensure your storage systems are configured for maximum performance, security, and reliability. From SMB configuration to hybrid cloud solutions, we help businesses streamline data management and maintain seamless connectivity across all environments.
Learn more about our Synology solutions here: Synology Consulting Services.

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