Using Google Drive File Stream

January 15, 2020

It’s time to move the files* stored on your local computer to Google Drive and discover how Google Drive File Stream lets you use your files in the same way you do today (but with more advantages).

*If you are unsure if your files belong in Google (for example, you have files with highly confidential protected data - we call this Level 1 data), please contact the Technology Help Desk at x4357 or create a support ticket. 

We’d appreciate it if you could please forward to your department’s staff and faculty.

What is Google Drive File Stream?

Think of Drive File Stream as a way to access Google Drive files and folders right from your computer and have them automatically backed up and available online.

Advantages of Google Drive

  1. Open files in applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and others. 

  2. Access your files from any internet-connected computer or your mobile device- ON or OFF campus.

  3. Unlimited storage.

  4. Collaborate and share files with colleagues.

  5. Off-line mode lets you access files when planning for no internet connection is available (such as during air travel).

  6. Restore deleted files or previous versions of files

Trainings

Google Drive File Stream:

March 4, 11, 25, 11:30-12:30 Gist Hall 211C

Best Practices for Google Shared Drives & My Drive:

March 5, 12, 19, 26 11:30-12:30 Gist Hall 211C

Register at https://training.humboldt.edu/ 

Accessing Google Drive

There are three ways to reach your data in Google Drive:

  1. Google Drive File Stream (Drive File Stream cheat sheet) - Most HSU computers have Drive File Stream already installed. Find Drive File Stream in your Start applications and follow the login prompts. On a Windows computer, usually a G drive will be created you can open and save files to, and on a Mac, the Google Drive appears on your Desktop. Full instructions can be found here: Windows OS    MacOS

  2. A web browser.- The Chrome web browser works best. From your MyHumboldt portal, click GMail then looking in the apps matrix (the dots in the upper right-hand corner), select Drive. Please note that this is where you would access fiels on the go and create new folders and change permissions for sharing documents. The web interface is also where you create new shared drives (Share drive cheat sheet).

  3. Upload files from your phone or tablet by using the Drive app.

Here is an overview on how to move your files using one of the above methods.

If you need help moving your files to Google Drive, please submit a Help Desk ticket.

HSU Storage Option Descriptions https://its.humboldt.edu/apps-software-file-storage/where-do-i-store-and-access-my-files