Get started with Google Drive for desktop

Previously known as Google Drive File Stream, Google Drive for desktop is installed on all UIndy-owned computers issued to full-time employees and is available for install on personal devices. This article will articulate what Google Drive for desktop is, how to use it to backup files, and where to locate it on your UIndy-owned computer.

Navigate to Get started with Google Drive for desktop to install Google Drive for desktop on your personal device .

Learn about Google Drive for desktop

Google Drive for desktop allows you to:

  • Edit, view, and organize your Google Drive files on your devices' file systems (File Explorer or Finder) without using storage space. Files will sync when online.
  • Back up your files, especially Microsoft Word and Excel files.
  • Make selected files and folders available offline.

Files that are shared with you will not automatically appear in My Drive, see the following link to find files shared with you.

Locate Google Drive for desktop on your UIndy-owned device

Windows
  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. On the left side of the File Explore window, beneath This PC, click the Google Drive drive.

 

Please Note:

  • Google Drive Folders contains both your individual Google Drive and any Shared Drives with which you're included.
  • These files are not stored on your computer by default.
  • Any changes you make to these files will sync automatically with your cloud storage, when connected to the internet.

A folder called Google Drive will appear on the left in File Explorer. This folder will contain both your personal Google Drive and any Shared Drives you are part of. The only difference between these files and any other file on your computer is that these files are not stored on your computer by default, and any changes you make to them will sync automatically with your cloud storage.

Mac
  1. Open Finder.
  2. Click the Google Drive folder.

Please Note:

  • The Google Drive folder contains both your individual Google Drive and any Shared Drives with which you're included.
  • These files are not stored on your computer by default.
  • Any changes you make to these files will sync automatically with your cloud storage, when connected to the internet.
Address received error
  1. You may receive an error stating that Google Drive for desktop encountered an issue and has stopped. If so, open System Preferences.
  2. Click Security and Preferences.
  3. Click Allow Google Drive.

Backup files with Google Drive for desktop

If you are interested in taking advantage of backup storage and working in the cloud, consider Google Drive for desktop. To use Google Drive for desktop to backup files on your device, please contact the IT Help Desk for further assistance.