Accessing and Uploading Files from Windows to TrueNAS SCALE
This guide explains how to access and upload files to TrueNAS SCALE SMB shares from a Windows client.
Prerequisites
- A functioning TrueNAS SCALE system.
- SMB shares properly configured (e.g.,
/mnt/core-pool/lab
,/mnt/core-pool/agency
). - At least one user with permissions to access the share (e.g.,
labuser
,agencyuser
). - Your Windows client must be on the same network or able to reach the TrueNAS IP (e.g.,
10.30.0.11
).
Steps
1. Open File Explorer
On your Windows machine:
- Press
Windows + E
to open File Explorer. - In the address bar, type:
\\10.30.0.11\lab
or\\10.30.0.11\agency
- Press
Enter
.
Replace
10.30.0.11
with your TrueNAS IP if different.
2. Authenticate
- When prompted, enter the credentials for the SMB user:
- Username:
labuser
oragencyuser
-
Password: [set during user creation]
-
Check “Remember my credentials” if you want to avoid logging in every time.
3. Upload Files
You can now:
- Drag and drop files into the window.
- Create new folders.
- Rename and delete files if you have permission.
4. Optional – Map Network Drive
To make the share persistent on reboot:
- Right-click on
This PC
>Map network drive…
. - Choose a drive letter (e.g.,
Z:
). - For folder, enter the path (e.g.,
\\10.30.0.11\lab
). - Check “Reconnect at sign-in” and click
Finish
.
Troubleshooting
- Can't connect: Ensure TrueNAS IP is reachable and SMB service is running.
- Access denied: Verify the user has permissions on the dataset.
- Slow file access: Check for network bottlenecks or try using gigabit Ethernet.
Result
Your Windows client can now access and manage files in your TrueNAS SCALE SMB shares efficiently.