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Resolving Google Drive File Sync or Access Issues

Steve Cvar

by Steve Cvar

Knowledge Base

2 min read

Resolving Google Drive File Sync or Access Issues

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Resolving Google Drive File Sync or Access Issues

If you're unable to open, sync, or update files stored in Google Drive, the issue is often temporary and can be resolved by checking local sync settings or restarting your computer.
This guide walks through the most common steps to restore normal Google Drive operation.

1. Confirm the File or Folder Is Available Offline

If you regularly work on certain files or folders, make sure they're marked for offline access in Google Drive for Desktop.
This ensures files are cached locally and remain accessible even when there's a brief internet or sync interruption.

To check or enable offline access:

  1. On your computer, click the Drive for Desktop icon in the system tray (Windows) or menu bar (macOS).
  2. Select Open in Explorer (Windows) or Open in Finder (Mac).
  3. Right-click the folder you frequently use and select
    Drive for Desktop → Available offline
  4. A green checkmark will appear once the files are fully available offline.

💡 Tip: Do this for any folders you open daily—such as shared project folders or working documents.

2. Verify Google Drive for Desktop Is Running

Occasionally, the Drive sync client may pause or stop running after updates or reboots.

3. Restart Your Computer

If files still aren’t updating or opening properly, perform a full system restart.
This clears temporary cache conflicts, restarts background services, and re-establishes your sync connection.

  1. Save any open work.
  2. Restart your computer normally (don’t use sleep or hibernate).
  3. Wait 2–3 minutes after login for Drive to re-initialize.
  4. Try opening the affected files again.

4. Check Internet Connectivity and VPN

If you're connected through a VPN or restricted network, Drive may have limited access.