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Google Drive is a cloud storage service from Google that lets you store files online, sync them across devices, and share them with others. Here, we’ll explain what you can use the service for.
What is Google Drive? Explained simply and clearly
Google Drive is a cloud storage service and works essentially like an external hard drive. To help you work as efficiently as possible with Google Drive, you should be familiar with its key features:
- Content is synced across all your devices. So, for example, if you upload a file from your PC, you can open it immediately from your smartphone as well.
- Google Drive is closely integrated with Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. This means you can create and edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations directly in Google Drive without having to purchase other programs.
- Your documents always have a version history. This lets you see when something was changed and allows you to revert files.
- You can easily share files via a link. You decide whether people with the link can only view, comment on, or edit the file. You can revoke this permission at any time or set an expiration date for the link.
- You can access the cloud not only online via the website, but also via the app for iOS and Android. With the app, you can scan documents, which is especially handy for receipts, contracts, or handwritten notes.
- If you install Google Drive for Windows or Google Drive for Mac, you can also sync entire folders with your computer. This way, Google Drive serves as an additional storage location for your files, accessible both on your PC and from anywhere via the web.
Alternatives to Google Drive
Google Drive isn’t the only cloud storage service you can use. We’ll introduce you to OneDrive, Dropbox, MEGA, pCloud, and iCloud:
- OneDrive: OneDrive is a service offered by Microsoft. It includes 5 GB of free storage.
- Dropbox: Dropbox generally provides only 2 GB of free storage. However, you can easily unlock more free storage space for Dropbox.
- MEGA: Here you get 20 GB of free storage. It features client-side encryption, and the company describes itself as “secure and private cloud storage for everyone.”
- pCloud: With pCloud, you get 10 GB of free storage. You can even choose lifetime plans here, where you purchase an account for life. These come with either 500 GB, 2 TB, or 10 TB and range in price from 200 to 1,200 euros.
- iCloud: Apple users in particular are likely familiar with iCloud. You get 5 GB of free storage. However, you cannot store just any data here. The content must be approved by Apple. With the iCloud Control Panel for Windows you can sync content from your Apple device with your PC.
