FAQs
How to use Google Drive
- Step 1: Go to drive.google.com. On your computer, go to drive.google.com. ...
- Step 2: Upload or create files. You can upload files from your computer or create files in Google Drive. ...
- Step 3: Share and organize files. You can share files or folders, so other people can access, edit, or comment on them.
Does Google Drive desktop store files locally? ›
With Drive for desktop, files are stored in the cloud and don't need to sync with online versions, saving network bandwidth. Files that are cached for offline access will sync back to the cloud when you're online.
How do I access my Google Drive? ›
Go to drive.google.com. Log into your Google account with your username and password.
What is the difference between Google Drive, my Drive, and my computer? ›
“My Drive” keeps the structure of your computer's Drive folder, and folders in the “computers” tab have the same structure as the folders on your hard drive that you've synced. There are other tabs, as well. You can find recently accessed files in the “recent” tab.
How do I move Google Drive files to my computer? ›
- On your computer, go to drive.google.com.
- Open the file in: Docs. Sheets. Slides.
- Click File. Download.
- From the list, select the desired file format.
Why use Google Drive for desktop? ›
You can use Google Drive to store documents you create in Google Docs and back up files on your computer. In addition, you can specify any folder on your device for backup and save space by not duplicating files on local storage.
Where are documents that you place on Google Drive stored? ›
All content in Drive is stored in one of these 2 defined spaces: drive and appDataFolder . drive —Includes all user-visible files created in Drive. PDFs, documents, Google Docs, shortcuts, and other content the user uploads is located in the drive space. appDataFolder —Includes per-user application data.
Is Google Drive for Desktop free? ›
Is Google Drive Free? The basic version of Google Drive is free to install. However, those who are looking for more storage space can choose to become involved with a number of paid subscription plans.
Does Google Drive take up space on my computer? ›
Learn what items in Google Drive use storage space
Most files in your My Drive take up space as they contain files and folders you upload or sync, such as . pdf files, images, or videos. Your space in My Drive also contains files you create, such as Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms.
Can anyone see your Google Drive? ›
The content you save on Drive is private to you, from others, unless you choose to share it. Learn how to share or stop sharing files in Google Drive.
Google Accounts don't have to use a gmail.com address. You can associate any existing email address with a Google Account. Alternatively, files can be shared with non-Google accounts using visitor sharing. Learn how to Share documents with visitors.
How do I use Google Drive on my PC? ›
- On your computer, open Drive for desktop .
- Click Search .
- Enter your search terms. Tip: You can use the same advanced searches as in Drive web.
- Open your file. If the file is on your computer, it opens with the associated application. Otherwise, it opens in Drive web.
What is Google Drive called now? ›
Drive File Stream is now called Google Drive for desktop. Google is making this change to create a better user experience. Starting August 18, 2021, users still on Backup and Sync will start to receive in-product notifications prompting them to transition to Drive for desktop.
What is the best use of Google Drive? ›
Drive integrates with Google Docs, Slides, Forms, and Sheets which allow you to not only create new files but collaborate on them with your team in real time. You can upload your files online or install Drive for Desktop, which allows you to sync folders from your computer to Drive.
How do I share files on Google Drive? ›
- Select the file you want to share.
- Tap Share or Share .
- Under “General access,” tap Change.
- Select Anyone with the link.
- To decide what role people will have with your file, select an option. ...
- Tap Copy link.
- Tap Back.
- Paste the link in an email or any place you want to share it.
What is Google Drive and how does it work? ›
Google Drive is a free service from Google that allows you to store files online and access them anywhere using the cloud. Google Drive also gives you access to free web-based applications for creating documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and more.
How do I download files from Google Drive? ›
Go to Drive. Select a file to download. To download multiple files, press Command (Mac) or Ctrl (Windows) > click any other files.
Is Google Drive for free? ›
All Google Drive users receive 15 gigabytes of free storage across Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos.