Fix Mapped Network Drives Missing in Acrobat Reader Save As
Question details
Users are unable to see mapped network drives in the Save As dialog of Acrobat Reader DC.
- Product
- Acrobat Reader DC
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Saving a PDF file to a mapped network drive using Acrobat Reader DC.
- Observed behavior
- Mapped network drives do not appear in the Save As dialog, despite being accessible in Windows Explorer and other applications.
Ensure your Windows operating system is fully updated and verify that the mapped network drive is currently connected and accessible via Windows File Explorer.
Disable Protected Mode in Acrobat Reader
Acrobat's Protected Mode restricts access to network locations. Disabling it can restore visibility of mapped drives.
Acrobat Reader DC uses a security feature called Protected Mode, which runs the application in a restricted sandbox environment. While this protects your computer from malicious PDF files, it can also block the application from accessing mapped network drives and external paths.
Launch Acrobat Reader DC, click on 'Edit' in the top menu bar, and select 'Preferences' from the dropdown list.
In the Preferences window, select 'Security (Enhanced)' from the Categories pane on the left side.
Uncheck the box next to 'Enable Protected Mode at startup'. A prompt will appear asking for confirmation; click 'Yes'.
Click 'OK' to save your changes, then close and reopen Acrobat Reader DC to apply the new settings.
Update Acrobat Reader to the Latest Version
Installing the latest updates can resolve known bugs related to network drive mapping.
Save the PDF Locally and Move via File Explorer
A quick workaround if the drive is urgently needed but still missing from the Save As dialog.
Save PDFs to Network Drives Easily with WPS Office
Avoid network drive mapping errors in Acrobat by using WPS Office. Our built-in PDF tool allows you to easily view, edit, and save PDF files directly to any local or mapped network drive without complex security restrictions.
- 1. Install WPS Office: Download and install WPS Office from the official website.
- 2. Open Your PDF: Launch WPS Office and open your PDF file using the built-in WPS PDF tool.
- 3. Access Save As: Click 'Menu' in the top-left corner and select 'Save As'.
- 4. Select Network Drive: Browse to 'This PC' in the file dialog and select your mapped network drive to save the file seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my mapped network drives disappear only in Acrobat Reader?
Acrobat Reader's Protected Mode creates a secure sandbox environment that often restricts the application from accessing network paths and mapped drives to prevent malicious actions. This causes the drives to be invisible in the Save As dialog.
How do I map a network drive in Windows so it shows up in my apps?
Open Windows File Explorer, click on 'This PC', select 'Map network drive' from the top menu, choose a drive letter, and enter the folder path. Ensure 'Reconnect at sign-in' is checked so the drive remains available after a reboot.
Does WPS Office have the same network drive restrictions as Acrobat?
No, WPS Office integrates seamlessly with Windows File Explorer, allowing you to view and save files to any connected mapped network drive without requiring you to disable security features.
