Google Drive is a powerful cloud-based storage service that has become an essential tool for users worldwide. It provides the option to store, share and collaborate on files, documents and other media with incredible ease. The best part about Google Drive is that it is entirely free for a personal user to use with a certain storage limit (15GB). There are also premium plans available that extend the storage capacity and come with additional features.

Google Drive for desktop is a client-based application that allows you to access all your stored data without the need for a web browser. It essentially functions as a local folder on your computer, where you can store and sync files to the cloud for safekeeping. In this article, we’ll discuss how to use Google Drive for desktop to access and manage your files.

Installation Process:

Before we dive into the functionality and features of Google Drive for desktop, let us first discuss the installation process. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Go to your Google Drive account Sign in using your Google account details.

2. Once you’re logged in, click on the “gear” icon located in the top-right corner.

3. Click on “Download Drive” and choose your operating system (Windows or Mac).

4. Follow the prompts in the installation wizard to authenticate your account and configure your settings.
Your account is now synced with your desktop, and the Google Drive folder is accessible from your home directory.
Main Features:

1. File Syncing:

Once you install Google Drive for desktop, it creates a new folder in your home directory. Everything you save in this folder gets automatically uploaded and synced to your Google Drive account. Any changes you make to any files in this folder can be accessed from any device that you have synced with.

2. Backup and Restore:

Google Drive for desktop offers the option to back-up your data, including your important files, folders, and even your entire system. This feature comes in handy if you ever experience a hard-drive failure, malware attack or lose your device. You can restore all your data in no time with just a few clicks.

3. Sharing:

Google Drive for desktop allows you to share files and folders with other Google Drive users. You can set permission levels for each user, including view-only access or edit access. To share a file, simply right-click on it, click on “share,” and enter your recipient’s email.

4. Collaboration:

One of the best features of Google Drive for desktop is that it makes collaboration on documents and spreadsheets entirely seamless. You can invite other users to co-author any file you’ve saved in the Drive folder, and they can see any changes you make in real-time. This feature is exceptionally beneficial when working on group projects.

5. Offline Access:

Google Drive for desktop also allows users to access their files without internet access. Any changes made to the documents while you are offline will be synced with your account once you have an internet connection available.