Mount Google Drive as a Windows local disk

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Updated on: September 11, 2025
Time to read: 4 minutes
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Trying to access your Google Drive files easily on Windows? You can mount it as a local disk. While the official Google Drive app works, there are better third-party alternatives that offer advanced functionality, improved File Explorer integration, and improved security.

In this guide, we’ll show how to use CloudMounter to mount Google Drive on Windows and compare it with the native method.

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A native mapping of Google Drive into File Explorer

Most people tend to just use their Google Drive account on the web. Mounting it as a local disk on Windows, however, can make your workflow much smoother, letting you access your files without opening a browser.

The official Google Drive desktop app is great if you want quick access and to sync files between your computer and the cloud through File Explorer. Here’s how to map Google Drive to Windows using the official app:

  1. Download the desktop app on your PC from the official Google site.
  2. Install the app on your computer.
  3. Set up the app by following the on-screen instructions.
  4. Launch the app and sign in with your Google account.


Once that’s done, you’ll be able to access your Google Drive files directly within File Explorer.

INFORMATION: While this method is convenient, third-party tools like CloudMounter offer better functionality, additional features, and improved security.

Let’s take a look at how it can further improve your Google Drive experience.

How to add Google Drive to File Explorer with CloudMounter

CloudMounter for Windows offers many additional features and enhanced capabilities compared to the official Google Drive app, especially if you use multiple cloud storage services.

It lets you add Google Drive to File Explorer without needing to use a browser or download files from your drive. Here’s how to make Google Drive as a local drive using this app:

1. Download and install CloudMounter for Windows on your PC.

Download and install CloudMounter on Windows

2. Launch the app and click on “Google Drive” from the list of services that appear.

Select Google Drive connection in CloudMounter on Windows

3. Enter your Google account credentials to sign into your Google Drive.

4. Select a drive letter and click on “Mount”.

Google Drive setting in CloudMounter on Windows

Once this is done, you can access your Google Drive files directly in File Explorer, just like any other files on a local disk.

Access Google Drive server from File Explorer
Warning! Keep in mind that Google Docs stored on Drive are links and not physical files. CloudMounter handles them accordingly and makes it easy to move or copy documents across folders. Copying or moving files within the same Google account preserves access, while files copied to your desktop will still open in a browser.

However, moving a document to a different Google account will break the link, making it inaccessible. Deleting it from both Google Drive and docs.google.com will permanently remove the file.

Discover CloudMounter expanded features

Mounting Google Drive as a local disk isn’t the only thing you can do with CloudMounter. Here are some other important features it offers:

  • Manage files for multiple cloud storage services without the need for extra software.
  • Passwords are securely stored in Windows Credential Manager.
  • Available for both Windows and macOS users.
  • Supports a wide range of popular cloud services, as well as FTP and SFTP servers.
  • AES 256-bit encryption adds an extra layer of protection for your online files.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a powerful app that can mount Google Drive as a local disk and give you access to other cloud storage services directly in File Explorer, CloudMounter is the solution. While the official Google Drive app works, you would still need separate apps if you use multiple cloud storage services.

With CloudMounter, you can easily access all your cloud files in File Explorer without having to use any other apps.