It’s not enough to know where key files are being stored, they have to be accurate and up-to-date. A consideration to keep in mind in relation to your shared network drive. Good metadata management helps teams function and automates manual tasks to save time.

Unfortunately, shared network drives often don’t provide users with the keyword and geotagging functionality they might need when handling large volumes of files. One of the best ways to keep track of files, who is responsible for uploading them and granting access is metadata. Understand the secure file sharing methods available and consider this in relation to your business needs.īeing able to find files not only allows teams to work efficiently and in sync, but it also decreases human errors that can be costly for a business. Because work email accounts and log-on details are often linked to shared drives the potential for viruses is increased. Be aware of how passwords are created and stored by teams and ensure you utilize any security options. Often busy teams are not in sync when it comes to two-step authentication options and encryption features on shared drives can be limited. Establishing best practices when granting user rights is key to avoid the wrong information being shared. In large teams, access is often granted to several members. Let’s look at a few problems related to a shared network drive, and pain points to be aware of.Īdministrative tools control the majority of security options with shared drives, but if users are not aware of how these work it can cause security risks. But these drives have their issues and often lack accountability or file tracking capabilities. A shared network drive operates on a Local Access Network (LAN), a collection of devices operating in a physical location like an office. What is a shared (network) drive?Ī network drive allows users to instantly grant access to shared files from one computer to another. Here we look closely at what a shared network drive is, common pitfalls and how they impact a team. Regardless of whether a colleague leaves a company files remain in one place and accessible to a variety of users. Instead of an individual having ownership, a shared network drive puts files in the hands of entire teams.

Shared drives are a popular way to store, search and grant file access to team members.

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