Plex Windows client slow startup when network drives disconnected

[Tyablix]

Server Version#: Version 1.41.1.9057
Player Version#: Version 1.104.0

I have several network drives mapped on Windows 11 (and previously Windows 10). When they are connected, the Plex for Windows client (media player) starts up instantly. However, when any of them are disconnected but still mapped the client hangs on startup for at least 1 minute (longer if more drives are disconnected).

It seems the client is trying to enumerate or scan these drives for some reason and when it can’t it must wait for a long timeout.

This has been happening since at least 2021.

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