Google Drive Backup and Sync is a new app from Google that replaces the discontinued Google Drive for Mac/PC sync apps.  Backup and Sync allows users to backup their Google Drive files to their local computer, edit offline, and synchronize the changes when there is an active internet connection.  The app also allows users to select local folders from their computer to backup to their Google Drive and will backup photos and videos to Google Photos.  

Backup and Sync is one of two programs that will allow you to access your Google Drive documents and files directly on your personal computer without a web browser.  Not sure which solution is right for you?  To learn more about the features, benefits, and differences between Backup and Sync and Drive File Stream, visit the Google Support - Choose a Sync Solution article.

Caution! Backup and Sync uses local computer storage to sync your files for offline editing.  This file sync method will consume a significant amount of your computer's hard drive space.  If you have limited space, consider using Drive File Stream.

Note: If you have the old Google Drive Sync program installed, it must be uninstalled before proceeding with the installation of Backup and Sync.

Download and Installation

1. Download the Google Drive Backup and Sync installation file to your local computer.
2. Agree to the Google Terms of Service to proceed with the download.
3. Locate the InstallBackupAndSync.exe file and double-click the file to launch the installer.
4. If you receive a User Account Control security pop-up, click Yes to proceed with the installation.
5. Wait while the installer downloads additional files and proceeds with the installation.
6. Once the installation is finished, click the Close button.

Log-in and Setup

1. A setup wizard will launch to guide you through the program setup.
2. Sign-in using your Beloit College account credentials.
3. Choose the folders from your local computer that you would like to sync to your Google Drive.
   • The Desktop, Documents and Pictures are selected by default.
   • Uncheck any folder you do not want to sync.
   • If there are other folders that you would like to sync, click the Choose Folder button to locate and select them.
4. If you would like to backup your photos and videos into Google Photos, click the Upload photos and videos... checkbox.
5. Select the resolution quality for photo backups, High Quality (reduced size, compressed) or Original (full resolution).
   • If you are backing up to your Beloit College account we recommend using Original, since EDU accounts have unlimited storage.
   • If you are backing up to your personal Google account, you may want to select High Quality, which will not count against your storage quota.
6. Once you have made your changes, click Next to proceed.
7. Choose whether to sync your Google Drive (My Drive) to your local computer, or choose specific folders to sync.
   • Proceed with caution! Syncing your entire Google Drive to the local computer could significantly impact your available hard drive space.
8. Once you have made your selections, click Next to proceed.
9. The Backup and Sync menu icon (image above) should now appear in the system tray (near the clock).  
   • Use this menu for a quick link to your Google Drive or Google Photos accounts online, and to manage the app settings.
   • The installer also places a shortcut to your Google Drive documents in Quick Access on Windows File Explorer.

Note: If you have the old Google Drive Sync program installed, it must be uninstalled before proceeding with the installation of Backup and Sync.

Download and Installation

1. Download the Google Drive Backup and Sync installation file to your local computer.
2. Agree to the Google Terms of Service to proceed with the download.
3. Locate the InstallBackupAndSync.dmg file and double-click the file to launch the installer.
4. Once the file extraction completes, drag the Backup and Sync from Google app file into the applications folder.
   • You will be required to enter your Mac system password to allow the installation.
5. When the file finishes copying, navigate to the Applications folder and double-click the Backup and Sync icon to open the app.
6. A security warning Backup and Sync from Google.app is an application downloaded from the Internet... will popup.  Click Open to allow the app to run.

Log-in and Setup

1. A setup wizard will launch to guide you through the program setup.
2. Sign-in using your Beloit College account credentials.
3. Choose the folders from your local computer that you would like to sync to your Google Drive.
   • The Desktop, Documents and Pictures are selected by default.
   • Uncheck any folder you do not want to sync.
   • If there are other folders that you would like to sync, click the Choose Folder button to locate and select them.
4. If you would like to backup your photos and videos into Google Photos, click the Upload photos and videos... checkbox.
5. Select the resolution quality for photo backups, High Quality (reduced size, compressed) or Original (full resolution).
   • If you are backing up to your Beloit College account we recommend using Original, since EDU accounts have unlimited storage.
   • If you are backing up to your personal Google account, you may want to select High Quality, which will not count against your storage quota.
6. Once you have made your changes, click Next to proceed.
7. Choose whether to sync your Google Drive (My Drive) to your local computer, or choose specific folders to sync.
   • Proceed with caution! Syncing your entire Google Drive to the local computer could significantly impact your available hard drive space.
8. Once you have made your selections, click Next to proceed.
9. The Backup and Sync menu icon (image above) should now appear in the system tray (near the clock).
   • Use this menu for a quick link to your Google Drive or Google Photos accounts online, and to manage the app settings.
   • The installer also places a shortcut to your Google Drive documents in Favorites on Finder.