How do you add Google Drive to File Explorer?
In today’s digital age, cloud storage has become an essential part of our lives. Google Drive, with its vast storage capacity and seamless integration with various devices, is one of the most popular cloud storage services. However, by default, Google Drive is not integrated with the File Explorer on Windows. This article will guide you through the process of adding Google Drive to File Explorer, making it easier to manage your files and folders.
Step 1: Install Google Drive
Before you can add Google Drive to File Explorer, you need to install the Google Drive desktop app on your Windows computer. To do this, visit the official Google Drive website and download the installer. Once the download is complete, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
Step 2: Sign in to Google Drive
After installing the Google Drive desktop app, launch the app and sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have a Google account, you can create one for free at accounts.google.com. Enter your email address and password to log in to your Google Drive account.
Step 3: Set up Google Drive in File Explorer
Now that you have the Google Drive desktop app installed and signed in, it’s time to set it up in File Explorer. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon in the taskbar or by pressing the Windows key + E.
2. In the File Explorer window, click on the “View” tab at the top.
3. In the “Layout” group, click on the “Options” button.
4. In the “Options” dialog box, click on the “Change folder and search options” link.
5. In the “Folder Options” dialog box, go to the “View” tab.
6. Under the “Files and Folders” section, check the box next to “Show icons and thumbnails instead of thumbnails.”
7. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
Step 4: Add Google Drive to File Explorer
Now that you have set up the folder options, it’s time to add Google Drive to File Explorer. To do this, follow these steps:
1. In File Explorer, click on the “View” tab again.
2. In the “Layout” group, click on the “Navigation Pane” button.
3. In the “Navigation Pane” dialog box, click on the “Add a folder” button.
4. In the “Add a Folder” dialog box, navigate to the location where you installed the Google Drive desktop app (usually C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\Drive).
5. Click on the “drive.exe” file and click “Open.”
6. Google Drive will now be added to the Navigation Pane in File Explorer.
Step 5: Access Google Drive
With Google Drive added to File Explorer, you can now easily access your files and folders from the Navigation Pane. Simply click on the Google Drive folder, and you’ll see all your files and folders organized as they are in your Google Drive account.
In conclusion, adding Google Drive to File Explorer is a straightforward process that enhances your file management experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily integrate Google Drive with your Windows computer and access your cloud storage directly from File Explorer.
