Google Drive File Stream is a nifty tool that allows you to access your Google Drive files directly from your computer, just like a local drive.
To access Google Drive File Stream on your computer, you'll typically find it in the File Explorer or Finder, depending on your operating system. For Windows users, it's usually located under "Network Locations" or "This PC", while for Mac users, it's found in the "Locations" section.
Google Drive File Stream uses a cloud storage service to sync your files, so you can access them from anywhere, at any time. This means you can work on files without having to download them first.
If you're having trouble finding Google Drive File Stream, try checking the Google Drive website for help.
What is Google Drive File Stream?
Google Drive File Stream is a service offered by Google for companies that have a G Suite (Workspace) application package. It's a great option for those who work with desktop applications and large files.
File Stream is essentially a Google Drive for computers, allowing you to store all your files in a folder connected to your Drive on your desktop. This folder will also give you access to edit your files directly, and when you save them, they'll be automatically synchronized.
With File Stream, you can quickly see all your Google Drive files in your computer's file system, including Shared Drives. This means you can browse and organize your files without having to download all of them to your computer.
You can also choose which files or folders you'd like to make available offline, making it easy to access your files even without an internet connection. This is particularly useful for large files or projects that require frequent access.
Here are some of the key features of Google Drive File Stream:
- Stream your Drive files directly from the cloud to your Mac or PC.
- Save specific files and folders offline, including Shared Drives.
- Browse and organize Google Drive files without downloading all of them to your computer.
- View and organize your files in your computer’s file system.
- Open files with apps installed on your computer.
- See all of your files in Google Drive without using storage space on your computer.
Features and Uses
File Stream is a great tool for accessing your Google Drive files on your computer. You can quickly see all your Google Drive files in Finder/Explorer, including Shared Drives.
One of the key features of File Stream is that you can save specific files and folders offline, including Shared Drives. This means you can access your files even when you don't have an internet connection.
File Stream allows you to browse and organize Google Drive files without downloading all of them to your computer. This is especially useful if you have a large number of files.
You can choose which files or folders you'd like to make available offline, giving you more control over your file access. This is a great feature for people who need to work on files without an internet connection.
Here are some of the specific things you can do with File Stream:
- Quickly see all your Google Drive files in Finder/Explorer
- Save specific files and folders offline, including Shared Drives
- Browse and organize Google Drive files without downloading all of them to your computer
- Choose which files or folders you’d like to make available offline
- Open files with apps installed on your computer
- Open files in common apps like Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop
- See all of your files in Google Drive without using storage space on your computer
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Google Drive file stream cache?
The Google Drive file stream cache is located at %LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\DriveFS by default. You can check your customized location if you've made changes to the default setting.
What is Google Drive file stream called now?
Google Drive File Stream is now known as Google Drive for Desktop. This rebranding brings the same functionality to your Mac or PC with a new name and logo.
What is the difference between Google Drive and Google Drive Stream?
Google Drive is a cloud storage service, while Google Drive File Stream is a desktop application that syncs cloud files with your computer. The main difference is that Drive is a web-based service, whereas Drive File Stream is a local application that provides faster access to your files.
Sources
- https://it.nmu.edu/docs/using-google-backup-or-drive-desktop-file-stream
- https://www.adelphi.edu/it-services/google-drive-file-stream/
- https://ucloudglobal.com/en/blog/file-stream-how-sync/
- https://www.cbackup.com/articles/google-drive-file-stream-not-syncing.html
- https://www.multcloud.com/explore/what-is-google-drive-file-stream-7201-ac.html
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