# How to configure External Storage locations on the NovaSeq X Series

The NovaSeq X/X Plus requires a network storage location to serve as the output folder for sequencing data. The instrument stores data in a temporary folder on the instrument while Universal Copy Service (UCS) transfers the data to the intended output folder. If there are disruptions to the data transfer, UCS resumes the transfer once the network is back online.

Prior to run setup, the network storage must be configured through the External Storage options within the Control Software. See the following instructions for configuring network storage.

Before starting this process, collect the following information from the local IT team.

* Network protocol type, either Server Message Block (SMB) or Network File System (NFS).
* Fully qualified Universal Naming Convention (UNC) path to the share folder.
* Network username and credentials (usually a Service Account).
* The network domain if the server is joined to a domain.

**Add a Network Drive to External Storage**

1. Within the Control Software, select the instrument icon to open the global navigation menu.
2. Select **Settings**, and then select **External Storage**.
3. Select **Add network storage**.
4. Select the network drive type, either **SMB** or **NFS**.
5. Enter the following information:
   1. Server location (as the UNC Path).
   2. \[Optional] Domain.
   3. Network User name and password.
6. If using SMB protocol for network storage, select a file encryption option. Using encryption is recommended.
7. Select **Test configuration** to test the network storage connection.
8. If the test completes successfully, select **Save**.

If there are any issues with completing this process, contact [Illumina Technical Support](https://www.illumina.com/company/contact-us.html).

**Specify External Storage as the Output Folder**

After adding a network drive to External Storage, use the following instructions to configure the Output Folder on the network drive.

1. Within the Control Software, select the instrument icon to open the global navigation menu.
2. Select **Settings**, then select **External Storage**.
3. Select a server location from the list of network locations added to External Storage.
4. If an output folder has been added, select **Edit folders**, and then **Add folder**.
5. If an output folder has not been added, select **Add folder**.
6. Select a **server location** from the drop-down list, and then select one of the available folders.
7. Optional: Enter a folder nickname.
8. Select **Save**.
9. Remove output folders by selecting **Remove** on the Edit folders screen.

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