How to Send Files Using Google Drive (Easiest Way in 2024)
In this article, we will show you exactly how to send files with Google Drive. Simply follow the steps below.
How to Send Files From Google Drive
You can send files through Google Drive in two ways: share files with specific individuals for secure and private access, or create a link that allows anyone to access the file with ease.
Method 1: Send Files with Selected Users
Follow these steps to send files to selected individuals:
1. Select the File You Want to Send
Click on the file you want to send in Google Drive. This action highlights the file for sending. Make sure you have the correct file selected before continuing.
2. Open the Sharing Options for the Selected File
Select the file, right-click to open the menu, then click “Share” to view sharing options, and click “Share” again to access the share settings. You will use another window to add specific users.
3. Enter Email Addresses in the Sharing Window
In the “Add people, groups, and calendar events” field, type the email addresses of the people you want to send the file to. You can add multiple addresses. This step allows you to choose who can access the file.
4. Set Permissions for Each User You Want to Share With
Next to the email addresses, select the permission level. Choose “Viewer,” “Commenter,” or “Editor.” This action controls what these people can do with the file.
5. Send the Share Invite to Specific Users
Click “Send” once you’ve entered the emails and selected permissions. The recipients will receive an email with a link to your file.
Check with them to make sure they can open it.
Method 2: Send Files with Anyone
Here’s how to send files to anyone from Google Drive by generating a link:
1. Select the File You Want to Share in Google Drive
Find the file you want to share in Google Drive, then click on it to ensure it’s selected.
2. Right-Click the File and Choose “Share”
Select the file, right-click to open the menu, and click “Share” to access the sharing options. Then, click “Share” again to open the share settings. A new window will appear, where you can change the general access settings.
3. Change the Link Sharing Setting to “Anyone with the Link”
In the sharing window, click on the “Restricted” button below “General access.” Change the setting to “Anyone with the link” using the dropdown menu to enable wider access.
4. Set Permissions for People with the Link (View, Comment, Edit)
Use the dropdown menu to choose the appropriate permission level for those with the link: “Viewer,” “Commenter,” or “Editor.”
5. Copy the Shareable Link to Send to Others
Click “Copy link” to copy the link, then paste it into a message or email to share with others.
Confirm with recipients that they received the link and can open the file. Help them troubleshoot if they encounter any issues.
We hope that you now have a better understanding of how to send a file through Google Drive. If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our articles on how to send a video to Google Drive and how to send a Google Drive file as an attachment.