How to Add Google Drive to File Explorer on Windows

The cloud is now at your fingertips

Cloud-based storage is becoming a necessity in today’s digital world. And while Microsoft added a built-in option to access OneDrive in Windows 10, you need to take a few more steps to add Google Drive to File Explorer.

This tutorial will explain what the Google Drive for Desktop app does and how you can install it.

What is Google Drive for Desktop?

If you store your files in the Google Drive app, accessing them on the fly is necessary. But having to drag and drop files from a web browser like Google Chrome whenever you want to access them is time-consuming.

The Drive for Desktop app allows you to use Google Drive from Windows’ built-in file manager. This means you can access all of your Drive cloud storage (including Google Docs, Google Sheets, andGoogle Photos) directly from your Windows PC.

Note:Google Drive is also available for Mac, Android, and iPhone.

How to Add Google Drive to File Explorer

To add Google Drive to Windows File Explorer, you have to use the Windows-focused Google Drive for Desktop software:

Google Drive will now appear as a virtual drive (for example, the H: drive). To access this:

You can now access and transfer files between your desktop and Google Drive by clicking and dragging.

Note:You can easily add theGoogle Drive folderto the Quick Access bar by right-clicking theGoogle Drivefolder and selectingPin toQuick Access.

Does Google Drive for Desktop Work Offline?

Yes. To make a folder or file available offline, you have two options:

If using the “Stream files” mode, you can make files available offline as follows:

The Cloud at Your Fingertips

Storing and organizing your files in the cloud has never been easier. Ascloud storagetechnology becomes more sophisticated, more tools and options are available to consumers. With this tutorial, you can easily access your Google Drive storage directly from your PC, Mac, or mobile device.

Jake Harfield is an Australian freelance writer whose passion is finding out how different technologies work. He has written for several online publications, focusing on explaining what he has learned to help others with their tech problems. He’s an avid hiker and birder, and in his spare time you’ll find him in the Aussie bush listening to the birdsong.Read Jake’s Full Bio

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How to Add Google Drive to File Explorer on Windows#

What is Google Drive for Desktop?#

How to Add Google Drive to File Explorer#

Does Google Drive for Desktop Work Offline?#

The Cloud at Your Fingertips#