page background

Google Drive App

Shrink the Size by Controlling Folders That Sync

Google DriveAppShrink the Size by Controlling Folders That Sync
zoom_out_map

For those of you with LARGE Google Drives

For those of you that use the Drive App, you might want to control the folders it is syncing before you fill up your machine's disk space. The app is backing up everything in your Drive, as a file, on your computer. If your Drive is huge, the data in the app will be, too- if left unchecked. The Google Drive App is an amazing tool. If you don't already use it, and you're a Google Drive user, download it here.

1. Click on Your Google Drive App Icon

2. Click the More Icon (Snowman Menu)

3. Choose Preferences

4. Switch from "Everything" to "Only"

5. Uncheck Folders You Don't Need to Sync & Apply

That's It!

From now on, only those folders that you left check-marked will sync to your computer. Everything else still exists in the cloud. You can revisit these same steps at any time to tweak your Google Drive App preferences.

Not Sure How Big Your Drive App Is?

There are a few ways to determine the size of your Google Drive App. The Get Info option is simple and will provide even more details in three easy steps.
zoom_out_map

First

Right-Click on your Google Drive App, either in your Finder's left column or in your Applications.
zoom_out_map

Second

Select "Get Info" from the pop-up menu.
zoom_out_map

Third

It might take a second, but the size will load.

Note About Machine Type:

These instructions were geared for a Mac, but the steps are the same on a PC. Icons may be in different places, but the process is exactly the same. You can find alternate instructions here.
zoom_out_map

Abi Adam

Instructional Technologist

Seminole High School

Email: aadam@seminole.k12.tx.us
Website: shstechweekly.blogspot.com
Location: 2100 NW Ave D, Seminole, TX, United States
Phone: (432)758-5873
Twitter: @aquatexas