How to Easily Download Files to Google Drive on Chromebook

ByJim Miller

Chromebooks are fantastic devices, but they do have one major drawback – limited storage. While you can insert an external SD card to expand storage, there's another solution that doesn't involve any physical hardware. By setting the default download directory to Google Drive, you can not only save space on your Chromebook but also make your files easily accessible from any device. Here's how you can do it:

Changing the Default Download Location

To download files directly to Google Drive, follow these simple steps:

  1. Open your Chrome browser and click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
  2. From the options that appear, click on “Settings.”
  3. In the left sidebar, click on the “Advanced” option and then select “Download” from the dropdown menu. Alternatively, you can open this link to directly access the download options in Chrome.

Opening settings Google Chrome

  1. In the downloads section, you have two options: you can either change the default location for downloads to a specific folder, or you can choose to be prompted for the download location each time.
  2. To change the download directory to Google Drive on your Chromebook, click on the “Change” button next to the Location option.

Navigating to downloads option on Google Chrome

  1. Chrome OS's File Manager window will appear. Click on “Google Drive” in the left sidebar and navigate to the exact location where you want to download the files. Then click “Open” at the bottom right of the window.
  2. Congratulations! You have successfully changed the download location to Google Drive.

Selecting the downloads location on Google Chrome on Chromebook

Making Files Available Offline

If you want to access certain files even when you're offline, you can make them permanently available. Here's how:

  1. Open the Files app on your Chromebook, then navigate to Google Drive.
  2. Right-click on the file you want to make available offline and select the “Available Offline” option.
  3. Once the file is available offline, you'll see a checkmark beside it indicating that it can be accessed without an internet connection.

Making files available offline on Google Drive of Chromebook

  1. You can find your offline files in the offline section of Google Drive.

Benefits of Changing the Download Location

Changing the download location to Google Drive not only applies to files downloaded from the internet but also affects the default location of the entire Chromebook. This means that even screenshots taken on your device will be saved directly to Google Drive. It simplifies the process of using multiple devices, as you have a single storage location for all your files.

Please note that while Chromebooks support cloud storage services like Dropbox, you cannot set them as default options for downloads.

In conclusion, by following these simple steps, you can easily download files directly to Google Drive on your Chromebook. This not only saves space on your device but also ensures that your files are accessible from anywhere, on any device. Enjoy the convenience and flexibility that comes with having all your files stored in the cloud!

Also read: Best PWA Apps You Need to Install on Your Chromebook