To add Google Drive to your desktop, you need to install the Google Drive desktop application, called "Google Drive for Desktop." Here's a step-by-step guide for both Windows and macOS:
1. Download Google Drive for Desktop
- Go to the download page: Google Drive for Desktop.
- Click "Download Drive for desktop" to get the installation file for your operating system (Windows or macOS).
2. Install Google Drive for Desktop
For Windows:
- Run the installer: Once downloaded, open the
.exefile to begin installation. - Follow the prompts: Agree to the terms and conditions, then proceed with the default installation steps.
- Sign in: After installation, open Google Drive for Desktop and sign in with your Google account.
For macOS:
- Open the downloaded .dmg file.
- Drag the Google Drive icon to the Applications folder.
- Open Google Drive: Go to your Applications folder and launch Google Drive.
- Sign in: Enter your Google account credentials.
3. Sync Google Drive with Your Computer
After signing in, you'll be given options to set up how Google Drive syncs with your desktop:
- Stream files (default): Files are stored in the cloud and streamed to your computer as needed, saving local disk space.
- Mirror files: All files are downloaded and stored on your computer and in the cloud, so you have offline access.
4. Access Google Drive on Desktop
- Windows: Google Drive will appear as a folder in File Explorer under "This PC" or as a separate drive letter.
- macOS: Google Drive will appear in Finder under "Locations."
5. Start Using Google Drive
- Drag and drop files to sync them with your Google Drive.
- Any changes made in the Google Drive folder on your desktop will sync with your Google Drive account.