Questions
- How do I connect the Files app on my iPad to a network drive?
- How do I get to my department or personal Microwave folder on an iPad?
- How do I connect to a server from the Files app?
- Can I access my H: or J: drive files on an iPad?
- What server address do I enter in the Files app to reach Microwave?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students connecting an iPad to a network folder on the microwave.bowdoin.edu file server using the built-in Files app.
- iPad running iPadOS with the Files app
Resolution
Important: You must be connected to the Bowdoin VPN if you are not on campus. See the Related Articles section for information about installing the VPN client or connecting to the VPN.
- Open the Files app on the iPad (the icon looks like a blue file folder on a white field).
- Tap the three horizontal dots in the upper left and tap the Connect to Server option.
- Next to Server, enter the path to the folder:
- For a department folder:
smb://microwave.bowdoin.edu/dept/NAME_OF_THE_DEPT_FOLDER
- For your home folder:
smb://microwave.bowdoin.edu/home/YOUR_USERNAME
- Make sure to use forward slashes ( / ) when entering the path in macOS or iOS. Windows uses back slashes ( \ ) in its paths.
- Tap Connect.
- Make sure the Registered User option is selected. In the Name field, enter your Bowdoin username (without the @bowdoin.edu). In the Password field, enter your Bowdoin password.
- Tap Next. You will now see microwave listed under Shared on the left sidebar and a Home or Dept folder in the files area. The Home or Dept folder is where you will find the folder you connected to.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.