Windows 7: My Network Places and Desktop Icons are Missing

Windows has never handled the viewing and browsing of networks very well. Just when people got used to the XP style, Windows 7 changes things up again. These hints will help with the new “My Network Places” functionality. This tutorial will also show how to create icons pointing toward your network.

I have had several people ask me what happened to “My Network Places” in Windows 7. The functionality is still there, but it’s just been tweaked.

To Create a Shortcut to a Specific Folder on the Network:

1. Click Computer
2. Right-click on a blank area on the right side of the screen
3. From the context menu select Add a Network Location

4. The Add Location network wizard will begin.
5. The new link will show up in the Computer folder under Network Locations when you are done..

Create a Shortcut to Your Network

1. Right-click on your taskbar
2. Click Properties
3. Click Start Menu tab
4. Click Customize button
5. Scroll down and click Network
6. Click OK

A network shortcut will now appear in your start menu. You can drag this icon onto your desktop if you want a network icon on your desktop as well.