Google Drive File Stream to replace Google Desktop App

  • Updating to Google Drive File Stream Instructions:

     

    What is it?

    Google Drive File Stream is a new desktop application that allows you to quickly access all of your Google Drive files on demand, directly from your computer without losing precious drive space. It is a replacement for the Google Drive Desktop App.  Files are all in the cloud, nothing is stored locally on your computer, and any changes you make are automatically synced with the cloud for quick, easy access anywhere you have an Internet connection.

    The following message will appear if you have not switched.  See instructions below to update.

     Google Drive Message

      Installation

    1. Download Google File Stream for Windows or Mac. You must be logged into your Google account to see this page.
    2. Run the installation package.
    3. Log into the portal with your School email address and password
    4. Select Allow on the required permissions prompt.

    Getting Started

    Once Google Drive File Stream is installed, a folder called Google Drive File Stream will appear on the left in Finder or File Explorer.  This folder will contain both your personal Google Drive and any Team Drives you are part of.

    Google File Stream

    The only difference between these files and any other file on your computer is that these files are not stored on your computer by default, and any changes you make to them will sync automatically with your cloud storage.

    The macOS known issue: If you receive an error that says, Google Drive File Stream encountered a problem and has stopped, Go to System Preferences > Security and Privacy > Allow Google Drive Files Stream. 

     

    Making Files Available Offline

    By default, Google Drive File Stream does not store a copy of your files on your local computer. This means that if you do not have an Internet connection, you will not be able to access these files. In order to make your files accessible offline, right-click on a file or folder and select Available Offline under the Drive File Stream menu. Please note that doing so will store a copy on your computer, using up more of your hard drive space.

     

    Google File Stream