Showing Network Drives in Finder Sidebar

bfeinzimer wrote:

Just wanted to leave a more recent update to the below thread:

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/4462230

When attempting to put a mounted Synology NAS shared folder/drive on the sidebar in Finder, I had to UNCHECK the option to show "Connected servers" before I was able to drag my mounted share to the sidebar. With it checked, I was not able to place the mounted drive in the sidebar. Seems like flipping the checkbox re-enabled being able to place it. Weird that this bad design option/bug is still prevalent in 2023 from 2012.

Mac OS Ventura 13.4

To be proactive you can file a bug report /submit your Apple Feedback here: Product Feedback - Apple

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

Let me share my experience in that situation, with Ventura 13.4 and DSM 7.2-64561 running on Synology DS216+II.

First, as suggested by Synology, I have disabled AFP under File Services and left SMB active. In Finder settings I have left the option to show "Connected servers" checked.

Then, in Finder and under Network location, I double-clicked (connected to) my NAS and that showed all my shared folders. By opening any of those it automatically got added under Remote Volumes at the top level location in the sidebar (name of your Mac). From there you can drag and drop it under Favorites or Locations in the Finder sidebar.

Opening any of the shared folders as described above also automatically adds your NAS under sidebar Locations.

Unfortunately, this does not survive a Mac restart.