What is it?

Drive File Stream is the recommended Google Drive client for faculty and staff on Dream computers. It is the business-oriented Drive product which provides full access to all files in your “My Drive” and “Team Drives” from your Mac.

Where is it?

You can find the Drive File Stream icon  at the top right of your screen or the app can also be found in your /Applications. But, if you do not see it in any of these places...see below.

Installing Google Drive File Stream

Open the Self Service app found in your /Applications folder. Find "Google Drive File Stream," then click "Install."

Accessing Files

Google Drive File Stream will automatically open when you log in to your Mac. You can also launch the "Google Drive File Stream" app found in your /Applications folder. When running, you'll see the Google Drive logo in your menu bar.

"Google Drive" appears in your Finder sidebar under "Devices." Click the "Google Drive" device to access your files.

"My Drive" and "Team Drives" are both available via Google Drive File Stream. If you aren't a member of any Team Drives, you won't be able to select the "Team Drives" folder.

Drive File Stream is fully integrated with Finder. Files stored in Google Drive will display previews and useful metadata, just like any other file on your Mac.

Google File Types

Google file types, such as .gdoc, .gsheet, and .gslide, can't be opened with an app on your Mac. When you click these files your default web browser will open to the Google Drive web interface.

File Status

Files with a "cloud" icon are available only while connected to the Internet.

Files with a "timer" icon are currently being streamed to your Mac.

Files with no status icon are available offline.

Making Files Available Offline

Right click (or hold Control and click) the file or folder you'd like to make available offline. Hover over the "Drive File Stream" contextual menu item, then click "Available offline."

Files made available offline will always be accessible, even when you don't have an Internet connection.