Google Drive for desktop: sync your files effortlessly

Google Drive is one of the most popular cloud storage services in the world, and with the Google Drive desktop app you can seamlessly sync your files between the cloud and your computer. Whether you use Windows or Mac, in this guide you'll learn everything about installing, setting up and getting the most out of Google Drive for desktop.

What is Google Drive for desktop?

Google Drive for desktop is Google's official application that gives you access to your Drive files directly from your computer. The app replaces the older Backup and Sync and Drive File Stream applications and combines the best of both.

Key features

  • Stream files from the cloud without using local storage
  • Make selected folders available offline
  • Back up local folders to Google Drive
  • Sync with multiple Google accounts
  • Integration with Google Docs, Sheets and Slides

Installing Google Drive for desktop on Windows

Follow these steps to install Google Drive on your Windows computer:

Step 1: Download the application

Go to google.com/drive/download and click 'Download Drive for desktop'. The installation file is downloaded to your computer.

Step 2: Install

Double-click the downloaded file (GoogleDriveSetup.exe) and follow the installation instructions. During the installation you'll be asked whether you want to sign in with your browser.

Step 3: Sign in

After the installation your browser opens automatically, where you can sign in with your Google account. Authorize access to your Drive files.

Step 4: Configure

After signing in you'll see the Google Drive icon in your taskbar. Click it to open the settings and decide how you want to use Drive.

Installing Google Drive for desktop on Mac

The installation on Mac is similar:

Download and install

Go to google.com/drive/download and download the Mac version. Open the downloaded DMG file and drag Google Drive to your Applications folder. Launch the application and sign in with your Google account.

Granting system access

On Mac you may need to give Google Drive permission in System Preferences > Security & Privacy. Follow the on-screen instructions to grant full disk access.

Choosing a sync method

Google Drive for desktop offers two ways to sync files:

With this option your Drive files are not stored locally but streamed from the cloud. You see all files in File Explorer or Finder, but they don't take up disk space until you open them. This is ideal if you have limited storage space or a large Drive library.

Mirror files

With mirroring, all your Drive files are stored locally on your computer. This gives you faster access and also works when you're offline, but it requires enough disk space.

Changing the setting

Click the Google Drive icon in the taskbar, go to the gear icon > Preferences > Google Drive. Here you can choose between 'Stream files' and 'Mirror files'.

Backing up local folders to Google Drive

You can have local folders backed up to your Drive automatically:

Setting up a backup

Go to Preferences > My Computer. Click 'Add folder' and select the folders you want to back up. By default, Google suggests backing up your Desktop, Documents and Pictures.

Sync options

For each folder you can choose:

  • Sync with Google Drive: Files are available on drive.google.com under 'Computers'
  • Back up to Google Photos: Photos and videos are also uploaded to Google Photos

Working with Google Drive in File Explorer and Finder

After installation, Google Drive appears as a drive in your file manager:

On Windows

Google Drive appears as a separate drive (usually G:) in File Explorer. Here you'll find your 'My Drive', 'Shared drives' (if you use Google Workspace) and 'Computers' (for your backups).

On Mac

In Finder you see Google Drive in the sidebar under 'Locations'. You can open the same folders and files as on Windows.

Adding files

Drag files into the Google Drive folder to upload them to the cloud. You can also create new files directly in the Drive folder.

Working offline with Google Drive

You can make files available for offline use:

Individual files

Right-click a file and select 'Make available offline'. The file is downloaded and can be accessed without an internet connection.

Entire folders

You can also make entire folders available offline. This is useful when you're working on a project and need access to several files.

Recognizing offline status

Files with a green check mark are available offline. Files with a cloud icon have to be downloaded first.

Using multiple Google accounts

Google Drive for desktop supports multiple accounts:

Adding an account

Click the Drive icon, then your profile picture, and select 'Add another account'. Sign in with your second Google account.

Switching between accounts

In File Explorer or Finder you see separate folders for each account. You can easily copy files between accounts by dragging them between the folders.

Google Drive and Google Workspace

If you use Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) for work or school:

Shared drives

You have access to shared drives where your team can store and share files. These appear in a separate section in your Google Drive folder.

Storage limits

Business accounts often have more storage space than personal accounts. Contact your IT department for specific limits.

Troubleshooting

Here are solutions for common problems:

Syncing doesn't work

Check your internet connection. Click the Drive icon to see whether there are any errors. Sometimes it helps to sign out and sign in again.

Files don't appear

Wait a few minutes, syncing can take a while. Check on drive.google.com whether the files are visible there.

Disk full notifications

If you use 'Mirror files' and don't have enough disk space, switch to 'Stream files' to save space.

Reinstalling Google Drive

If problems persist, uninstall Google Drive via Settings > Apps and reinstall it from the website.

Tips for efficient use

Maximize your productivity with these tips:

Creating shortcuts

Instead of copying files, create shortcuts to frequently used files or folders. Right-click and choose 'Add shortcut to Drive'.

Searching in Drive

Use the search function on drive.google.com to find files quickly. Google also searches the content of documents, not just file names.

Version history

Google Drive automatically keeps earlier versions of your files for up to 30 days. Right-click a file and choose 'Manage versions' to view or restore older versions.

Conclusion

Google Drive for desktop is a powerful and flexible solution for syncing your files between the cloud and your computer. With options for streaming and mirroring, support for multiple accounts and seamless integration with Google Workspace, the app adapts to the way you work. Follow the steps in this guide to set up Google Drive and enjoy access to your files wherever you are.

Frequently asked questions

How much free storage do I get with Google Drive?

With a free Google account you get 15 GB of storage, shared between Google Drive, Gmail and Google Photos. You can buy more storage through Google One, with options starting at 100 GB.

What is the difference between streaming and mirroring files?

With streaming, files are not stored locally but streamed from the cloud, which saves disk space. With mirroring, all files are downloaded locally, which gives faster access and makes offline work possible, but requires more disk space.

Can I use Google Drive for automatic backups?

Yes, in the preferences under 'My Computer' you can select local folders that are automatically backed up to Google Drive. You can also have photos and videos synced directly with Google Photos.

Does Google Drive for desktop work with Google Workspace accounts?

Yes, the app works with both personal Google accounts and Google Workspace accounts (formerly G Suite). With Workspace accounts you also have access to shared drives and possibly more storage, depending on your organization.

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