Google Backup and Sync is an application that helps you sync your files online. It enables you to create an automatic backup of your files online. Not only that, it is a foolproof way of syncing your files across multiple devices. However, regular use of Google backup can give rise to storage space issues.
With the variety of benefits that come with the sync client, the ever-increasing synced files bring a fair share of storage problems and eventually you find out that the files have eaten up the local storage. In case you’re facing the same issue of low disk space, we’re here to help you in getting rid of replicas of Google Drive files.
Google Backup and Sync- Notable Features
First of all, let us reflect on some of the cool features offered by Google Backup and Sync:
Offline Access:
Internet connectivity issues should not affect your productivity when it comes to Google Backup and Sync as the files are not only accessible offline but also open to editing. As soon as you go online, all the files will be updated with the changes you made offline.
Data Protection and Safety:
Your data safety is no longer dependent on your device. With Google Backup and Sync acting as file backup software, your data will stay safe and also be protected against malware, system dysfunctions, and physical damage to your device as well as device theft.
Edits Updated Across Multiple Devices:
Regardless of whether you use one device or multiple devices at home or workplace, your edits will be updated and accessible on all devices- all thanks to Google Backup and Sync! Say goodbye to the age-old methods of copy-paste, save time and effort.
Customization:
Google Backup and Sync can be customized according to your needs so you can choose which files to sync and which ones to leave out. Similarly, you can choose to sync all the files sitting on your Google Drive.
Large Files Synchronization:
As we all know that file sizes exceeding a set maximum size limit cannot be shared as email attachments. This is where Google Backup and Sync come in handy- videos smaller than 10 GB and images smaller than 200 MB or 150 megapixels can be synced which makes it quite a reasonable limit if you aren’t a corporate user dealing with extra-large files.
Advantages of deleting local files
Files should be organized and useless files should be routinely and timely deleted or else your disk space can become easily cluttered and if this happens, the cloud system will issue a warning to buy more storage and upgrade your storage plan.
Deletion of local files and restoring space for fresh files
Method 1: Manual selection of files
You can manually select files that you wish to be available only online and not on your device as local files. Simply choose a file that you want, right-click on it and choose the option of it being available online only.
Method 2: Sync selected folders and delete other local files
You can easily choose the option of syncing only a selected part of your Google Drive files and folders. All you have to do is set the preferences of your Google Backup and Sync to only sync selected folders. The local files that have been synced from other folders will be automatically deleted by Google. Moreover, the original files on your Google Drive won’t be affected. Hence, this will help you in freeing up disk space quickly and efficiently. The step-by-step process is as follows:
- Locate the Google Backup & Sync icon in the Notification Area of the taskbar and right-click
- Tap Preferences.
- Select the Google Drive tab.
- Do not choose Sync everything on my drive; instead, select the Sync only these folders option.
- Unselect the folder(s) that are not needed on local storage
- Tap OK to apply and save changes