Mirrored files are stored both in the cloud and locally on your computer. Once everything is installed, Google will prompt you to choose between two options: Mirrored files and Streamed files. Doing this will make two separate virtual drives in File Explorer or Finder for easy identification. If you have multiple accounts, Google lets you easily add another account. Choose whichever one you store your files with. Google will ask what account you want to use. Once that setup file is opened, go ahead and follow the prompts to install Google Drive. If it asks, save the file and open it on your computer. On that page, there’s a big blue button that reads “ Download Drive for desktop.” After clicking the button, your browser will either ask what you want to do with the file, or it will start downloading immediately.

First, head over to the Google Drive Download page. Google makes integrating Drive with your desktop pretty straightforward. How to install and use Google Drive for Mac or PC Google Drive for desktop can also serve as a fine Dropbox alternative. These online backups ensure files aren’t lost in the event of a broken computer. Either way, it’s perfect for uploading photos for a cloud backup or keeping files in the cloud while you aren’t working on them. The only caveat may be that files and photos stored in Drive for desktop could take a little longer to upload and be accessible in the web client. Opening up File Explorer on a PC or Finder on a Mac gives access to local files, as well as the data stored in Drive for desktop. The web client, though, may at times feel a little disconnected from your local computer since, in order to upload files and photos, a user needs to open their file manager and drag files into the separate browser window.ĭrive for desktop, on the other hand, is completely integrated into the local computer. Within any browser, you can access all of your files that sync automatically, allowing you to switch to another device and access those same files with ease.

You’re likely familiar with Google Drive’s web client. What is Drive for desktop compared to the web client? How much storage do you get with Google Drive and how much does it cost?.How to upload directly to Google Photos from Drive for Mac or PC.How to install and use Google Drive for Mac or PC.What is Drive for desktop compared to the web client?.

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