If you’ve recently reformatted your PC and now need to access files stored on your WD My Cloud device through File Explorer, here’s a practical guide to get you back up and running.
Accessing WD My Cloud Files After Reformatting Your PC
When you reformat your PC, all previous network settings, drive mappings, and saved credentials are erased. This means that your computer no longer remembers how to communicate with devices like your WD My Cloud. Fortunately, reconnecting is usually straightforward.
Step 1: Ensure WD My Cloud Is Online
Before attempting to access it:
Make sure the WD My Cloud is powered on.
Confirm it’s connected to your router via Ethernet.
Check that your PC is on the same local network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet).
You can test connectivity by pinging the device:
Open Command Prompt
Type: ping wd my cloud and press Enter
If you get replies, your PC can see the device.
Step 2: Find the Device IP Address
Sometimes the name "wdmycloud" won’t resolve properly. You can find the IP address by:
Logging into your router (check under “connected devices”)
Or using the WD Discovery tool (downloadable from Western Digital's website
Step 3: Access via File Explorer
There are two primary ways to access WD My Cloud:
A. Using the Device Name or IP
Open File Explorer
In the address bar, type either: (replace with actual IP)
Press Enter
If your device has public folders, you’ll see them right away. If not, you’ll be prompted to enter credentials.
B. Map a Network Drive (Recommended)
To make access easier in the future:
Right-click on “This PC” > Select Map network drive
Choose a drive letter (e.g., Z:)
For folder, enter:
Check “Reconnect at sign-in”
Click Finish
If the folder requires login, input your My Cloud username and password. You may choose to save credentials.
Step 4: Install WD Software (Optional but Helpful)
WD offers a suite of tools that can enhance functionality:
WD Discovery – Detects and mounts devices
WD Access – Quick access to device shares
My Cloud Desktop App – Alternative to Explorer
These can automate connections and file management.
Step 5: Troubleshooting Tips
If you can’t connect:
Check that Network Discovery and File Sharing are enabled (Settings > Network & Internet > Sharing Options)
Disable any firewall or antivirus temporarily (they may block LAN traffic)
Ensure SMB1.0/CIFS File Sharing Support is enabled in Windows Features (required for older My Cloud models)
Restart both your router and WD My Cloud
Conclusion
Restoring access to your WD My Cloud after a reformat mainly involves rediscovering the device and remapping shares. Once connected, you can treat the My Cloud like any other folder in File Explorer. For persistent access, map the drive and save your credentials. Installing WD’s official tools can also simplify future interactions.
Let me know if you need help finding the device IP or setting up mapped drives.