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Backup and Sync and Google Drive File Stream Combine into New App

Monday, July 19, 2021

Google recently announced that its Backup and Sync and Drive File Stream users will need to move to a new, unified sync app called Google Drive for desktop. Once installed, the new app delivers some key features, including the ability to:

  • Sync local folders to Google Drive and Google Photos
  • Sync files between your computer and the cloud
  • Upload files to Google Drive and Google Photos from external devices

Existing Backup and Sync users are encouraged to transition to Drive for desktop before Aug. 18, 2021, to avoid receiving notifications from Google. Any users still on Backup and Sync or Drive File Stream after Oct. 1 will no longer be able to sign in and will need to transition to Google Drive for desktop.

For more about the upcoming transition, view this Google workspace update.

Get started with Google Drive for desktop

To transition from Backup and Sync to Google Drive for desktop, complete the following steps:

  1. Download Drive for desktop.
  2. Run the installer and complete the installation steps.
  3. Start the application:
    1. Windows: Open Start > Google Drive
    2. macOS: Open Applications > Google Drive
  4. Sign in to the application using your Stanford login. If you have multiple accounts signed in to Backup and Sync, you will be given the opportunity to move them all to Drive for desktop.
    (Note: If you’re unable to authenticate due to Cardinal Key enforcement, verify your devices appear in MyDevices and they show as compliant. Also make sure you have Cardinal Key installed and enabled for each of your web browsers.)
  5. If the account you are signing in with is also signed into Backup and Sync on your computer, a setup wizard will launch.
    1. The wizard will copy your settings and guide you through setup.
    2. If applicable, after Google Drive for desktop is set up, Backup and Sync will be uninstalled.
  6. Click Open Drive for desktop at the end of the wizard to get started.

If you’re currently using Drive File Stream, make sure you upgrade to the latest version (now named Google Drive for desktop) by Oct. 1.

More information

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