Google Drive 101.0.3.0

Winner Best software in 2014 - Cloud Storage.

Overview

Google Drive, a powerful synchronization tool for your files and folders by Internet giant Google, is a rival to Dropbox and SkyDrive. It is an easy to use tool for those who work a lot with Google Drive online and also have duplicates of files on their PCs. Sometimes, working in Google Drive and making sure your local data is in sync with Drive can get messy if you forget something. Businesses that use a lot of online sharing data are also direct Google Drive audience. Creating, sharing and collaborating on projects with Google Drive is easy and if you use the space up to 5 GB storage – it's free.

In case, you haven't used Google Drive yet, we suggest you give it a try, because it is a powerful online office application that allows you to create documents, spreadsheets and slide presentations, as well as convert files.

Installation

Installation is simple and as far as bundled software is concerned, there was none. You can choose an advanced setup to choose which folders you want to synchronize. The wizard then creates a folder in your computer and shortcuts to Google Docs, Slides and Spreadsheets.

Interface

After you log into your account and click on any of the shortcuts, the corresponding documents open up in your default browser. If you are offline, you can work with Drive's files and folders locally. The application will sync your files and folders the next time you go online.

Interface is the same as online Google Drive, but integrated into your Windows navigation toolbar, so there's basically nothing to get used to. You can just drag-and-drop your files to your local GD folder and it simultaneously syncs them to your cloud and other computers with GD access to this particular account.

Pros

Free 5GB storage. GD does not physically download the files from your cloud on your PC, but creates a folder with shortcuts, links to open documents in your default browser. Whether it is a pro or con, you choose for yourself. You will need Google Chrome for better performance in working with Google files when you are offline.

You can share your Google Drive images through your Google Plus account.

Overall scope of features is quite comprehensive – create, edit, share, collaborate in real time on documents of various types, spreadsheets, presentations, images, etc. You can leave comments in documents when you share them and receive notifications when collaborators comment on them. Drive has the comprehensive search option to help you find the correct file. If 5GB is not enough, you can upgrade to 25GB for $2.49/month.

Convenient way to back up your working files and personal images and videos.

Cons

This may be a matter of habit, but I prefer online Google Drive since the shortcuts on the desktop open the online Google Drive anyway. Dropbox has a more comfortable feel to it. Basically, cons are subjective and depend on what you are used to. Some may be concerned about their privacy, especially after the recent Prism revelations. Although, Google doesn't seem to be financially affected by the scandal, but I don't feel too comfortable knowing that third parties, even governmental, collect my data.

Alternatives

The above-mentioned Dropbox just has a better feel to it. Microsoft offers SkyDrive with very much the same features.

Conclusion

Google Drive for PC is a convenient synchronization tool for those who work with Google Drive online. If you need to make sure your files are in sync, working and collaborating through Google Drive is without a doubt convenient. Give it a try. 5GB space is free.

Winner Best software in 2014 - Cloud Storage.