Embedded Files
Google Drive for Desktop
Google Drive for Desktop is a desktop application that allows you to access and manage your Google Drive files directly from your computer, offering features like syncing files, working offline, and accessing shared drives, all without needing to open a web browser.
How it works
Google Drive
Google Drive for Desktop creates a Google Drive folder and a MyDrive on the hard drive on your computer. This allows users to work with cloud files directly from their computer's hard drive.
Desktop, Documents, and Pictures
The program also provides for a complete backup all files and folders located on the user's hard drive Desktop, Pictures, and Documents folders. These are saved automatically from every computer. This allows the files to be fully recovered in the case of accidental deletion or a computer crash.
Downloads
NOTE: The computer's Downloads folder is NOT backed up. Avoid working off files in your Downloads folder if you need them for your work flow. Downloades will not be recovered in the event of accidental deletion or computer crash.
Locating Drive for Desktop
Drive for Desktop is a program that is installed on your computer. You can see the program by searching for it in the Windows search bar or through the Finder on a Mac. It is named "Google Drive", but is identified as an app.
Windows
Use the search bar in the lower left of your screen and enter the words "Google Drive"
Locate the app from the search results and click to open it.
Mac
Click on the Launchpad in the botton of your screen. Select the Google Drive for Desktop Icon. If you don't see it right away, scroll to other screens by using the dots at the bottom of your launchpad interface.
Check to see if Drive for Desktop is running
All users are able to check to ensure that the Drive for Desktop program is running. Below are the ways to see the program running.
Windows
Look in the bottom right of your screen. If you don't see the icon, click on the up arrow, and then look for the icon.
If you still don't see the icon, the program is probably not running.
Mac
Look for the icon in the upper right of your screen. If you don't see the icon, the program is not running.
If the program is not running, restart your computer to automatically launch the program.
Turn your computer completely off. Then turn it back on.
Locating the folders created by the Drive for Desktop program
You can locate the folders created by the Drive for Desktop program in the Finder (on a Mac) or in the File Explorer (on Windows). You will see a G: for the drive, or "Google Drive", or "My Drive" in the folders of those views.
Windows
Mac
Check the status of the program
It is the responsibility of each user to make sure that they are utilizing program this appropriately and training is provided when you receive your school-issued computer and each time a new computer is issued to you. You can also request a refresher training at any time by emailing tech@blair.edu.
Symbols appear next to a file in Google Drive Windows Folder View or on Mac to show you the status of the sync.
Open the Windows Folder view to check the status of your sync or Open the Google Drive folder on your Mac.
Succesful Sync
Look for a green check mark or cloud icon next to the folder name.
Not able to sync
A red 'x' appears next to the folder name.
Limitations for "Shared With Me" Files and Folders
The program does not sync files that are located solely in the "Shared with Me" section so you will be unable to acces them from the hard drive.
To see those folders or files in the hard drive, make a shortcut in your MyDrive section of Google Drive.
Changes to your Gmail Password
If you change your Google password, you need to update the password in Google Drive for Desktop. If you need help, send an email to tech@blair.edu and someone from our team will respond.
Directions on how to change your password:
1. Click the icon for Backup and Sync to open your choices
2. Click the three dots for settings. Then select Preferences.
3. Follow the prompts to either update your password, or sign into your account.
Preferences for Drive for Desktop.mp4Report abuse