Outdated software, wrong proxy settings, or blocked firewall connections can also be reasons. In this article, we will discuss several ways to solve this error.
1. Rename the DriveFS Folder
Sometimes, the cached data in Drive File Stream can get corrupted and cause syncing problems or stop the app from working. By renaming the DriveFS folder, Google Drive will create new cache and configuration files, resetting the app’s local data without removing any files stored in the cloud. This step helps remove corrupted data that might be blocking normal operation.
2. Update Your OS and The File Stream App
Keeping both your operating system and Google Drive File Stream app updated ensures they work well with Google’s servers and the latest security measures. Updates often fix bugs, improve performance, and include solutions for known issues that might cause sync problems. By using the latest versions, you reduce the chances of software conflicts or missing features needed for smooth operation.
3. Change Your Network or Use a VPN
Sometimes, strict network settings or regional limits can stop Google Drive File Stream from connecting to its servers. Changing to another network or using a VPN can get around these limits, allowing a direct and secure connection to Google’s servers, which often fixes syncing and access problems.
4. Disable Your Antivirus and Firewall
Your antivirus or firewall might interfere with Google Drive File Stream by blocking its connection attempts, mistakenly seeing them as threats. Temporarily turning off these security tools helps the app connect to Google’s servers and sync files smoothly. Warning: Disable your antivirus and firewall applications at your own risk, as this step will make your system more vulnerable to threats like viruses, malware, etc.
5. Uninstall Chrome Remote Desktop (Screen Scraper Software)
Screen-sharing tools like Chrome Remote Desktop can cause issues with Google Drive File Stream by interfering with system resources or network settings. Uninstalling these tools removes the issues, ensuring smoother operation and better compatibility with Google Drive’s syncing process. Make sure to power cycle your computer before opening File Stream again.
6. Use Google Drive File Stream Through Another User
Switching to another user account can help identify the problem by ruling out issues related to corrupted user settings or permissions. By accessing Google Drive File Stream through a different account, you can find out if the problem is linked to your main profile or system settings, allowing for more specific troubleshooting.
7. Disable the Other Version of Google Cloud Service
Google cloud services include Google Backup & Sync (for home users) and Google Drive File Stream (for work/school users). Sometimes, users run both at the same time. However, a software glitch may cause Backup & Sync to interfere with Google Drive File Stream. Closing or uninstalling Backup & Sync might fix the issue.
8. Uninstall the Google File Stream App and Reinstall the Updated Version
Sometimes, a fresh start is all you need. Uninstalling Google Drive File Stream removes any bad files or settings causing the issue. Reinstalling the latest version ensures you have an updated app, getting rid of bugs or old parts that might cause problems. This step resets the app but keeps your synced files safe in the cloud. (For Mac: location of DriveFS folder is ~/Library/Application Support/Google)
9. Save Google Drive File Stream Files Offline
Making your Google Drive File Stream files available offline lets you work on them without needing a constant internet connection. This avoids syncing problems from unstable networks, allowing easy access to important files while fixing connectivity issues.
10. Turn off Screen Share
Mac has a feature that allows a user to share their screen with another Mac user. But due to a bug, Google Drive File Stream may not work when the screen share option is enabled on your Mac. In that case, disabling the screen share may solve the problem.
11. Unblock Google Drive File Stream and Allow Full Disk Access and Accessibility
Giving Google Drive File Stream full disk access and enabling accessibility permissions helps the app work smoothly with your system’s files and settings. Without these permissions, the app might not access or sync files correctly, causing problems. This step makes sure the app has the needed rights to work without being blocked by system restrictions or security settings.
12. Use Recovery Mode and Terminal Commands
If basic troubleshooting doesn’t work, using macOS Recovery Mode and Terminal commands gives you more control to fix Google Drive File Stream problems. This method lets you fix disk permissions, reset important system settings, or clear app data that might be causing issues. By using specific commands, you can directly fix corrupted cache files or wrong settings, ensuring the app works properly. Warning: Proceed at your own risk, as disabling this macOS feature will make your system more vulnerable. Also, we will try to authorize your Google Drive File Stream in macOS.
