How to Allow or Prevent Google Workspace Users From Installing Google Drive for Desktop

Quick and easy-to-follow guide for Google Workspace administrators

You can enable or disable the ability to download and install Google Drive for Desktop. 

What is Google Drive for Desktop

  • Google Drive for Desktop makes it possible to access Google Drive files and folders from your computer without opening Google Drive in their browser.
  • You can also use it to upload data to Google Drive on the web directly from your computer. 

When to disable Google Drive for Desktop

  • When you want to tighten security and prevent Google Drive data from being synced offline and stored externally.

How to allow or prevent the installation of Google Drive for Desktop step-by-step with images

Step 1

How To Allow Or Prevent Google Workspace Users From Installing Google Drive For Desktop - Step 1

In the Admin console at https://admin.google.com, click the Apps icon.

Step 2

How To Allow Or Prevent Google Workspace Users From Installing Google Drive For Desktop - Step 2

Select Google Workspace.

Step 3

How To Allow Or Prevent Google Workspace Users From Installing Google Drive For Desktop - Step 3

Click Drive and Docs. Make sure not to check the box to the left; just click the name.

Step 4

How To Allow Or Prevent Google Workspace Users From Installing Google Drive For Desktop - Step 4

Select Features and Applications.

Step 5

How To Allow Or Prevent Google Workspace Users From Installing Google Drive For Desktop - Step 5

Click Google Drive for desktop.

Step 6

How To Allow Or Prevent Google Workspace Users From Installing Google Drive For Desktop - Step 6

Check the Allow Google Drive for Desktop in your organization box. You have three additional options here:

  • Only allow Google Drive for desktop on authorized devices only enables users to install and use Google Drive for Desktop on managed devices.
  • Show Google Drive for Desktop download link displays a link to download File Stream in Drive’s web user interface at https://drive.google.com.
  • Allow users to enable real-time presence in Microsoft Office from Google Drive for Desktop lets users see who else is editing shared Office files in Drive in real-time.


Click SAVE. Changes to the setting may require up to 24 hours to take effect.

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