PlayInfoBox

Home /Utilities /How to Share Files on Google Drive

How to Share Files on Google Drive

Sharing a file or folder from Google Drive takes less than a minute once you know where the settings live.

  1. Select the file you want to share

    In Google Drive, right-click the file or folder you want to share.

  2. Choose "Share"

    Selecting "Share" from the menu opens the sharing settings window.

  3. Set the permission level

    Choose Viewer (view only), Commenter, or Editor depending on how much access the person needs.

  4. Manage who has access

    Reopen the sharing settings anytime to see who has access, change their permission level, or remove access entirely.

Link sharing vs. inviting by email

Sharing by email is more secure since only invited accounts can open the file, while a shareable link is faster for large groups but means anyone who gets the link -- even accidentally forwarded -- can access it. For sensitive files, email invitations with restricted permissions are the safer choice.

Editor access can be changed or removed later

Granting someone editor access doesn't have to be permanent. Revisiting the sharing settings and downgrading them to viewer, or removing them from the list entirely, takes effect immediately and doesn't affect the file's existing content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I share a file with someone who doesn't have a Google account?

Yes -- using "Anyone with the link" lets anyone open the file with just the link, no Google account required, though they may need to sign in to leave comments or make edits.

Will the other person be notified when I share a file?

By default, Google Drive sends an email notification when you share with a specific email address. You can uncheck the notification option before sending if you prefer not to alert them.