Windows File Explorer can connect directly to your Synology NAS shared folders over the local network using the SMB protocol for file access.
Once connected, you can drag and drop files between your PC and the NAS just like copying files between two folders on the same computer.
Quick Answer
Open File Explorer, click Network in the left sidebar, wait for the Synology NAS to appear, and double-click it under Devices to browse shared folders.
Method 1: Via the Network Section in File Explorer
Open File Explorer on your Windows PC and click Network in the left sidebar. Windows will scan the local network for any connected network devices.
Your Synology NAS will appear in the list twice: once under Devices and once under Other. The device name matches what you set during the initial DSM configuration.
Double-clicking the NAS name under the Devices category opens it as a folder view inside File Explorer, with all accessible shared folders listed inside.
Double-clicking the NAS name under Other opens its IP address in a browser and loads the DSM login page instead of showing folders in Explorer.
Method 2: Via the SMB Link in DSM Control Panel
Open DSM in a browser, go to Control Panel, and click File Services. Switch to the SMB tab to find the share access links for Windows and macOS.
The SMB tab displays a direct UNC path formatted for Windows File Explorer, such as \\NAS-NAME, and a separate afp:// link for macOS Finder users.
Copy the Windows path, paste it into the File Explorer address bar, and press Enter. Enter your DSM username and password when prompted to authenticate.
Troubleshooting Network Discovery
If your NAS does not appear under Network, confirm that SMB is enabled in DSM Control Panel > File Services > SMB and that your PC is on the same subnet.
On your Windows PC, go to Network and Sharing Center, click Change advanced sharing settings, and ensure Network Discovery and File Sharing are both turned on.