How to add or remove Network from Windows File Explorer

Managing network access within the Windows operating system can be confusing, especially when it comes to customizing the user experience in File Explorer. The Network (Network) is a built-in feature that provides quick access to shared devices and resources on your local network, but it is not always useful for all users.

Many people prefer to hide or remove this shortcut for organizational or privacy reasons, or because they simply don't use advanced network features. Below you'll find out how. All the ways to add, remove, or hide the Network icon in the Windows Navigation Pane, as well as security recommendations and best practices for customizing File Explorer to your liking. We'll also address the most frequently asked questions and the alternatives available both graphically and through the Registry Editor.

What is the Network icon in Windows and why does it appear?

In current versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11, the Network icon appears by default in the File Explorer navigation pane. This shortcut allows you to view and manage devices connected to your local network (such as NAS, printers, other computers, etc.), making it easier to browse and share files.

However, Not all users need this featureEspecially on computers that aren't part of a home or work network, the icon may be considered an unnecessary element or one that adds visual complexity.

The presence of this icon does not pose a security risk, but keeping the interface clean and tailored to your needs can improve the user experience in Windows.

Graphical methods to show or hide Network from File Explorer

One of the great things about Windows is that it allows you to make certain adjustments without touching advanced settings. There are quick and easy ways to customize your File Explorer navigation. from its own interface or from the Folder Options.

• Option from the ExplorerRight-click on an empty space in the navigation sidebar. You'll see the 'Show Network' option; you can select or deselect it as desired.
• From Folder Options: Go to the 'View' tab, find the 'Navigation Pane' section, and toggle the 'Show Network' option. This only affects the current user.

These graphical options are straightforward and safe, especially recommended for less experienced users who don't want to go through the hassle of accessing the Windows registry.

Edit the Windows Registry to manage Network visibility

If you're looking for a deeper solution or you need to apply the change to multiple users or to make it permanentModifying the Windows registry is the best method. It's crucial to be cautious, as registry changes can affect system performance if made incorrectly.

To remove the network icon, follow these steps:

1. Open the Registry Editor (regedit.exe). Type 'regedit' in the search box and press 'Enter'.
2. Navigate to the key:
   HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{F02C1A0D-BE21-4350-88B0-7367FC96EF3C}\ShellFolder
3. On the right side, locate the DWORD value called Attributes.
4. Change this value to b0940064 to hide the Network icon. If you want to show it, put b0040064.
5. On 64-bit systems, repeat the process on:
   HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Wow6432Node\CLSID\{F02C1A0D-BE21-4350-88B0-7367FC96EF3C}\ShellFolder
6. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Advanced Tip: Sometimes you'll need to take ownership of the key before editing it, as it's usually protected by the system. There are utilities like RegOwnershipEx that make this process easier.

Using REG files to automate changes

If you prefer an even faster method or need to apply the change to multiple computers, you can use a .reg file. This allows you to easily import or export registry settings.

A .reg file specifically for removing Network would contain lines like these:

REGEDIT4 "Attributes"=dword:b0940064

Double-click the file, accept the security warnings, and restart File Explorer or your PC to see the changes.
This is useful for system administrators or advanced users managing multiple devices.

Configure Network via Registration for Individual Accounts

If what you want is Customize Network access for your user only (and not for the entire system), you can operate on the key:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\{F02C1A0D-BE21-4350-88B0-7367FC96EF3C}

Within this key, add or edit the DWORD value "System.IsPinnedToNameSpaceTree" and set its value to 0 to hide the icon, or 1 to show it. This method affects only the current user account and can be reversed at any time.

How to restore the Network icon if you deleted it

Restoring the Network shortcut is as easy as reversing the process you selected. If you used the graphical interface, simply re-enable the option. If you modified the registry, return it to the previous value (b0040064 or 1, as appropriate) and the icon will reappear after a system restart.

Reasons to remove the Network icon

There are several reasons why you might want to hide or remove Network from File Explorer:

• Visual order: If your PC is not part of a home or work network, this icon is taking up unnecessary space.
• Privacy & Security: Although it does not expose sensitive information, some prefer to limit visible access to shared resources.
• Fewer distractions: In work-oriented teams or kiosk environments, removing unnecessary elements simplifies the experience.
• Avoid errors: Inexperienced users may become confused or accidentally modify network settings.

How to troubleshoot network device discovery

If you're having trouble seeing other devices on your network, the Network icon may not be working as expected, or other computers, printers, or NAS devices may simply not be showing up. Here are some recommended steps to diagnose and resolve these issues:

1. Enable network discovery and file sharing

• Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change advanced sharing settings.
• Expand the sections and make sure 'Network Discovery' and 'File and Printer Sharing' are enabled.
• Save changes and try again.

2. Check necessary services

For network discovery to work on Windows, these services must be running and in automatic mode: in this guide on Windows servicesTo verify this, press Win+R, type 'services.msc', and check all the listed services. If any aren't running, right-click on them and select 'Start.' Then, in Properties, set the startup option to 'Automatic.'

3. Add network credentials

In many cases, Windows does not display devices if login credentials have not been stored: on how to share resources online. Open the Control Panel > Credential Manager and follow the process to add the necessary credentials.

4. Map the network drive

• In File Explorer, right-click 'This PC' and select 'Map network drive' from the toolbar.
• Choose the letter and path of the resource to connect (example: \\YourNAS\Shared).
• Check 'Reconnect at login' and complete the wizard.

5. Enable SMB 1.0 only if absolutely necessary

Some older devices, such as NAS, require the SMB 1.0 protocol, which is disabled for security reasons. To enable it, see the corresponding section.over legacy network protocols.

Alternative solutions and additional tips

If after applying these procedures the Network icon still doesn't work correctly or you need a temporary solution, you can always access your network devices through the Internet Explorer address bar (by typing the path manually, such as \\computername\) or use third-party applications for advanced network management.

Finally, remember that any changes made to the registry can be reversed by following the steps above, and it's always a good idea to back up your registry before modifying key settings.

Customizing the presence or absence of the Network icon in File Explorer can optimize productivity and the user experience for different user profiles. Whether you're looking for a cleaner interface or managing multiple networked computers, knowing the available options allows you to adapt Windows to your needs with complete control and security.

Related article:

How to share files and folders on a local network in Windows 11

Isaac

Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.