How To Add Google Drive To File Explorer In Windows?

Ever feel like you’re constantly switching between your web browser and desktop just to manage files in Google Drive?  Wouldn’t it be easier to access your cloud storage directly within the familiar interface of File Explorer? Struggling to keep track of online and offline versions of documents?

The good news is, you can ditch the back-and-forth and streamline your workflow. This guide will show you exactly how to add Google Drive to File Explorer in Windows, allowing you to manage your cloud files with the same ease as local ones.  No more confusion, no more wasted time – just a smoother, more efficient way to work with your documents.

Benefits Of Adding Google Shared Drive To Windows File Explorer

Adding Google Shared Drive to Windows File Explorer can really improve how you handle work and data. Here’s a simplified guide:

• Easy Access: Integrating Google Shared Drive with File Explorer makes your cloud files appear as if they’re on your local computer. This lets you use familiar Windows tools to manage your files more effectively.
• Better Teamwork: When Google Shared Drive is in File Explorer, teamwork becomes smoother. You and your colleagues can share, access, and update files in real-time. Everyone stays informed and aligned.
• Boosted Productivity: Accessing Google Drive directly from File Explorer cuts down on switching between apps. This makes your tasks simpler and increases your productivity.
• Offline Availability: You can sync files to your local drive to access them when you’re offline. Any updates made offline will sync when you connect online again.
• Data Backup and Security: Adding Google Shared Drive to your File Explorer helps back up your local files.

How To Add Google Drive To File Explorer In Windows

Integrating Google Drive into File Explorer simplifies file management. This setup ensures your files are always accessible, securely backed up, and easy to handle. It boosts productivity by allowing smooth interaction between your cloud and local files.

1. Download and Install Google Drive For Desktop

To add Google Drive to File Explorer in Windows, you first need to download and install Google Drive for Desktop. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Download Google Drive for Windows

• Go to the Google Drive download page: Google Drive Download.
• Click the “Download” button to get the setup file.

Step 2: Install Google Drive

• Open your Downloads folder and find the GoogleDriveSetup.exe file.
• Double-click the file to start the installation.
• Click “Yes” for permission.
• Click “Install.”
• Optionally, check the boxes to add shortcuts for Google Drive, Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides to your desktop.

Step 3: Sign In with Browser

• After installation, Google Drive for Desktop will open automatically.

• Click “Sign in with Browser.”
• If it doesn’t open, find and open it from the Windows Start menu by clicking the Google Drive icon.

Step 4: Sign In to Your Google Account

• A browser window will open asking you to sign in.
• Select your Google account or click “Use another account” to enter your credentials.

• If you don’t have a Google account, sign up for one through Gmail.

Step 5: Find Google Drive in File Explorer

• Open File Explorer on your PC.
• Look for a new drive labeled “Google Drive” under This PC.

• If you don’t see it immediately, click on “This PC” in the left panel to refresh and display all connected drives.

2. Add Google Shared Drive to File Explorer

• Open File Explorer on your Windows computer.
• Look for Google Drive in the left sidebar under “This PC.”
• Expand Google Drive to find “My Drive” and “Shared Drives.”
• Select “Shared Drives” to view your items.

Alternatively:

• If you have the Google Drive icon on your desktop, double-click it.
• This action will automatically open File Explorer with Google Drive selected for you.

3. Access Shared Drive Files On Offline

To use your Google Drive files offline through File Explorer on Windows, follow these steps to set up offline access:

• Click the Google Drive icon in your taskbar to open it.
• Sign in to your Google Workspace account with your email and password.
• Follow the prompts to allow permissions for the app.
• In Google Drive settings, click “Add Account.”
• Check your account list to ensure your Google Workspace account is added.
• Open Windows File Explorer and navigate to “Google Drive.”
• You’ll find “My Drive” and “Shared Drives” under your Google Workspace account.
• Confirm everything’s set up by accessing your files in Google Drive via File Explorer.

Also Check:

• How To Share Google Drive With Someone?
• How To Download Video From Google Drive?
• How To Backup From Google Drive?
• How To Upload Or Add Photos To Google Drive?
• How To Move Photos From Google Drive To Google Photos?

FAQs:

Conclusion

In summary, by following these steps and installing Google Drive for desktop, you’ve successfully added Google Drive to your File Explorer in Windows. This allows you to seamlessly manage your cloud-based files directly within your familiar file management system. Now you can easily access, edit, and share your Google Drive files from the comfort of your PC.

Thanks for reading!  We hope this guide has been helpful.  If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.