8 Guaranteed FIXES for “Can’t launch Drive for desktop” Error

Are you struggling to launch Google Drive on your desktop? You’re certainly not the only one facing this issue. Google Drive stands out as a top choice among cloud services. It’s budget-friendly and great for syncing data across various devices. Plus, you can access it online or on a desktop app.

However, some people face problems opening the Google Drive app on their Windows computers. If you’re facing this issue, too, don’t worry.

While such challenges might seem daunting initially, they’re often solvable with the right steps. We will go over 8 working solutions for the “Can’t launch Drive for Desktop” error in this guide.

Why is Google Drive for desktop not launching on my computer?

There might be a temporary bug on your computer or a problem with the system that keeps files and folders from being backed up to Drive for the desktop. An unstable internet connection could also be the reason.

Here’s a breakdown of reasons your Drive for Desktop might be acting up:

• Unsupported file size or type: If the files you’re attempting to upload exceed the set file size limit, they won’t. Similarly, if Google Drive doesn’t recognize the file type, it can’t be backed up there.
• Firewall blocking: Your computer’s Firewall usually is on. If it limits the drive for the desktop’s internet access, you’ll need to grant it permission for private and public networks.
• Slow internet speed: A lagging internet might prevent you from syncing or uploading folders to Drive for desktop.

Read More: Slow Internet in Windows 10? Try these methods to Improve it

How to fix the can’t launch Drive for desktop error?

Several things might be preventing the Drive for the desktop from launching. The good thing is, regardless of the cause, there’s usually an easy way to fix it.

1. Restart your computer

Before attempting troubleshooting methods, restart your computer. Restarting your computer can help eliminate minor bugs and issues that otherwise seem unexplainable. You never know what magic a simple “turn off and on” can do.

2. Clear the app cache

Cached data and temporary files might be causing the problem. To fix this, clear the app’s cached data. Follow these steps:

1. Press the “Windows key + R” to open the “Run” box. In this box Type “%LOCALAPPDATA%\Google\DriveFS” and press “OK“

   

2. Press “Ctrl + A” to select everything in that folder.
   

   

3. Hit “Shift + Delete” or right-click and select “Delete” to remove all those files.
   

   

3. Force quit Google Drive

If Google Drive isn’t responding or is stuck, force closing it can often fix the problem.

1. Press “Ctrl + Shift + Esc” together to open the “Task Manager.”
2. Choose the “Processes” tab.
   

   

3. Find and select “Google Drive” from the list.
   

   

4. Press the “End task.”
   

   

By doing this, you shut down Google Drive quickly. Then, you can start it again, which should clear up your troubles.

4. Uninstall and reinstall Drive for desktop

Perhaps you have installed the wrong Google Drive desktop app version on your computer. To resolve this, uninstall and reinstall the desktop Drive from the appropriate source.

1. Open Windows “Settings“, then choose “Apps.”
   

   

2. Find it in the list, right-click, and “Uninstall.”
   

   

3. Install Drive for desktop from the official Google Drive site and set it up.
   

   

5. Opening Google Drive as an administrator

Sometimes, giving Google Drive more control can help. Starting it with admin rights ensures it has all the access it needs to properly start and function as intended. Here’s how:

1. Click on “Start” and type in “Google Drive.”
   

   

2. Choose “Run as Administrator.”
   

   

3. See if the Google Drive launch issue is sorted out.

6. Changing the proxy settings for Google Drive

Changing the proxy server settings in Google Drive might fix the problem. Incorrect proxy settings can be why Google Drive isn’t opening as it should on your computer.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Find the Google Drive icon on the Windows taskbar and open its “Preferences.
   

   

2. Click on the “Gear” symbol to see more options.
   

   

3. Scroll down and look for “Proxy Settings.”
   

   

4. Switch Proxy Settings from “Auto-detect” to “Direct Connection” and click “Save” to see if the problem’s fixed.
   

   

7. Check your internet connection

Make sure your internet is running smoothly. Some firewall, proxy, or network configurations might disrupt Drive for desktop works.

8. Disconnect & reconnect your account

If there were any unsynced files, they might be in your Lost & Found folder. This folder will be removed once you log out. Ensure you save these files elsewhere before proceeding.

1. Access “Google Drive” from the Windows taskbar.
   

   

2. Select the account you want to disconnect and Click “Settings.”
   

   

3. Go to “Preferences.”
   

   

4. Choose “Disconnect” account.
   

   

5. Sign in again.
   

   

6. Select a new location for your Google Drive folder.

How to solve the can’t launch Drive for desktop on Mac?

If Google Drive doesn’t work on your Mac, there could be various reasons, like a weak internet connection, software bugs, or your Mac’s safety settings blocking the app. Easy steps include ensuring your internet is OK, updating your Mac’s software, and checking its privacy and security options.

For advanced troubleshooting, you might need to log out and log back into Google Drive or remove and re-download the app, especially if it asks for login or gives permission issues.

Also, using the screen share feature on Mac can mess with Google Drive, so turning that off might help. You’ll want to check each potential problem individually to figure out what’s stopping Google Drive on your Mac.

Final Thoughts

Google Drive can sometimes give you trouble on a Windows computer. Issues might arise due to a weak internet connection, software problems, or specific settings on your PC. Simple steps like checking your connection, updating your software, or adjusting settings can often fix these problems.

Always go step by step to identify and solve any issues. Stay patient, and remember that most tech problems can be solved with some effort. Keep exploring solutions, and you’ll quickly get your Drive running smoothly on Windows.