Q: Accessing Remote NAS Shared Folders via File Explorer or Finder

2025-10-15

304In certain network environments where devices are connected via the Internet, accessing NAS files directly from Windows File Explorer or macOS Finder can be significantly more convenient than using a web-based interface. This method allows users to browse, open, and manage files as if they were stored locally on their computer. The following guide explains how to configure your system for direct NAS access through these native file management tools.

1. AEC(ASUSOR EZ Connect) mount
   Introduction to AEC (ASUSTOR EZ Connect) - ASUSTOR NAS
   *This method is currently only available on the Windows system.
   
   

ASUSTOR NAS provides a drive mapping function that allows you to take your NAS or NAS shared folders and map them to your computer as a network drive. Afterwards, all you need to do is open AEC and you will be able to immediately connect to your NAS and seamlessly access it from your computer, effectively expanding its storage capacity. The process of mapping a shared folder from your NAS is extremely simple and is described below.
Step 1
Click on a NAS connection and then click on the [Map Drive] button.

Step 2

Select the NAS shared folder you wish to map and specify a drive letter and name for it. You can also select the [Auto-mount when utility starts up] checkbox if you want the shared folder to be automatically mounted when AEC starts up.

Step 3
After you have finished all configurations, you will be able to access the mapped network drive with Windows Explorer.

In the AEC interface, you will also be able to see that the NAS shared folder has been mounted and mapped as a network drive.

2. WebDAV protocol mapping
   WebDAV: A Secure File Sharing Alternative to FTP - ASUSTOR NAS
   After enabling the WebDAV service and configuring the service ports forwarding properly, the WebDAV service will be accessible from the DDNS:service port via the internet.
   

From Windows.
In Windows File Explorer, right-click “This PC”, select "Map network drive", enter https://DDNS:port number/shared folder name, click Finish, and enter the login credentials. The shared folder will then be accessible in the File Explorer window.

From the MAC OS.
In Finder, select Go > Connect to Server, enter https://DDNS:port number/shared folder name, click Connect, and enter the credentials. The shared folder will then be accessible in the Finder window.

3. 
   
   
   
   3rd party VPN service, take Tailcale as an example.
   After installing, register and log in to the service. You can then add NAS, Windows PCs, and Mac computers to the service.
   
   
   
   
   Then you can access the NAS by visit the virtual IP address generated by the VPN service in both MAC Finder or Windows file explorer. 

4.