Google Drive for Desktop

Summary

Google Drive for Desktop allows users to synchronize and access their files in Google Drive directly from their computer` without needing to use a web browser. It replaces the previous "Backup and Sync" app and offers a streamlined interface for both individual users and businesses.

Key Features

    .1Stream or Mirror:
  • Stream Files: Files are stored in the cloud but can be accessed as if they were local. Files are downloaded on-the-fly when accessed.
  • Mirror Files: Choose specific folders to be downloaded and kept in sync on your local machine.
    .2Integrated Finder:
  • Your Google Drive will appear in Finder, allowing for easy drag-and-drop functionality and native file management.
    .3Shared Drives:
  • If you're using a business or enterprise version of Google Workspace, you can also access shared drives directly from your Mac.
    .4Right-click to Share:
  • Right-click on any file or folder within your Google Drive folder to quickly share it with others.
    .5Offline Access:
  • Files can be made available offline, so you can access them without an internet connection.
    .6Backup Specific Folders:
  • Apart from your Drive, you can also choose specific folders on your Mac to be continuously backed up to your Google Drive.

Setup & Review of Features

Download Google Drive for Desktop:

  • Go to the  Google Drive for Desktop download page 
  • Click on "Download" under "Drive for desktop".
  • Agree to the terms and conditions, and the download will start.

Install Google Drive for Desktop

  • Once the download is complete, locate the installer file (usually in your Downloads folder).
  • Double-click on the installer file to begin the installation process.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Sign in to Your Google Account

  • After installation, open Google Drive for Desktop.
  • You'll be prompted to sign in. Enter your Google email and password.
  • If you have two-factor authentication enabled, you'll need to verify your identity.

Choose Folders to Sync

  • Once signed in, you'll be given the option to choose which folders from your Drive you want to sync to your Mac.
  • You can choose to sync everything or select specific folders.
  • You'll also have the option to sync files from your Mac to Drive.
Folder Types
  • 1 - Downloaded folder
  • 2 - Shortcut folder
  • 3 - Synced folder
  • 4 - PDF (Viewable from desktop)
  • 5 - Google Sheer (Viewable in browser)
  • 6 - Download a folder (right-click to download and view additional functions)

Adjust Preferences

  • Click on the Google Drive icon in your Mac's menu bar.
  • Select the gear icon and choose "Preferences".
  • Here, you can adjust various settings like:
  • Changing the default Google Drive folder location on your Mac.
  • Adjusting bandwidth settings.
  • Choosing whether Google Drive starts on system startup.
  • Option to turn on Real-time Presence in Microsoft Office
  • Chose to sync your local photos with Google Photos

Accessing Your Files

  • Once everything is set up, you can access your Google Drive files directly from Finder.
  • A Google Drive folder will be created, and any files or folders you chose to sync will appear there.
  • Any changes you make to files in this folder will be automatically synced to your Google Drive in the cloud.

Backup & Sync

  • If you want to continuously backup specific folders from your Mac to Google Drive, you can set this up in the Preferences section. This is useful for ensuring important files are always backed up in the cloud.