Install and Use Google Drive on Your Mac 2025

Google Drive is a powerful cloud storage solution that lets you access files across devices, collaborate in real time and back up critical data.

If you’re a Mac user, setting up Google Drive is straightforward—but there are a few nuances to ensure smooth syncing. Here’s how to install and configure Google Drive on your macOS device.

Before You Begin

Check System Requirements:

macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later.
At least 2GB of RAM (4GB recommended).
A stable internet connection.

Sign In to Your Google Account:
Ensure you have a Google account. If not, create one here.

Step 1: Download Google Drive for Desktop

Google has replaced the older “Backup and Sync” app with Google Drive for Desktop, a unified tool for syncing files and accessing Google Workspace apps.

Go to the official Google Drive download page.
Click Download for macOS.
Open the downloaded .dmg file from your Downloads folder.

Step 2: Install the App

Drag the Google Drive icon into your Applications folder.
(Note: Add actual screenshot if applicable)
Eject the installer disk image by right-clicking the .dmg file and selecting Eject.

Step 3: Set Up Google Drive

Open Finder, go to Applications, and launch Google Drive.

Click Sign in with Google and enter your account credentials.

Choose which folders to sync:

Stream Files: Files stay in the cloud but appear in Finder (saves disk space).
Mirror Files: Files are stored locally on your Mac (uses disk space but allows offline access).

Click Continue and let Google Drive sync your files.

Step 4: Access Files via Finder

Google Drive will create a Google Drive folder in Finder.
Files you add here will automatically sync to the cloud and other devices.
Right-click files/folders to share them via link or adjust sharing settings.

Common Issues

App Won’t Open:

Check for macOS updates (Apple Menu > System Settings > General > Software Update).
Reinstall Google Drive.

Files Not Syncing:

Ensure you’re signed in and have internet access.
Restart the app or your Mac.

High CPU/Memory Usage:
Limit syncing to essential folders (Google Drive Settings > Preferences).

Uninstalling Google Drive

Quit the app (right-click the menu bar icon > Quit).
Drag Google Drive from Applications to Trash.
Delete residual files:
- Go to ~/Library/Application Support/Google/DriveFS.
- Delete the DriveFS folder.

Why Use Google Drive on Mac?

Automatic Backups: Protect photos, documents, and projects.
Cross-Platform Access: Files sync to iOS, Android, and Windows.
Collaboration: Edit Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides in real time.
Free Storage: 15GB free (upgradeable via Google One).

Final Tips

Use Selective Sync to avoid overwhelming your Mac’s storage.
Enable Offline Access for critical files in Mirror mode.
Pair Google Drive with Time Machine for comprehensive backups.

Now you’re ready to enjoy seamless file management across all your devices