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How to transfer files from Google Drive to OneDrive

Modified on: Wed, 2 Apr 2025 3:26 PM

CECG has moved to a single Microsoft platform for the provision of services. Key benefits include:

  • Integrated Communications via Teams combining chat, video calls and file sharing in one platform.
  • Application integration including SharePoint, OneNote and OneDrive providing a seamless workflow.
  • Real-Time Collaboration where Teams / SharePoint allows multiple users to work on documents simultaneously, improving efficiency and reducing email clutter.
  • Enhanced file sharing allowing control over permissions and access.
  • Microsoft Office suite interaction
  • Most importantly, centralised backup of data ensuring that nothing is lost in the event of device / storage failures.

Google Drive is no longer endorsed by the CECG Executive Leadership team. It can still be used and is supported by ICT. There is no current end of life date for the Google Suite of applications, however ICT recommends that staff commence the process of transferring personal data to OneDrive.

Service Areas / Schools are advised to contact ICT for assistance in transferring data from Shared Google Drives to SharePoint or Teams.

Step 1: Log into Google Drive

Log into your Google Drive account.

Go to “My Drive”. You will see your files and folders. Make sure you know where the files you want to transfer are located.

Step 2: Download the Files to your computer

Select the files or folders you want to transfer and download them to your computer.

You can download individual files by right clicking and selecting “Download”. For multiple files or folders, hold down the “CTRL” or “Command” key while clicking on each item you want to download, then right click and select “Download”.

Your computer will create a zip file containing all your selected files. Once downloaded they can be found by opening File Explorer (Shortcut CTRL E) and selecting Downloads.

 

Step 3: Unzip the files

Once the files are downloaded, you will need to unzip the file. Simply right-click on the zip file and choose “Extract All” or “Unzip”. The files unzip into the Downloads folder or you may want to choose a different location.

Step 4: Open OneDrive

Open your OneDrive application. This can be found by clicking on your Windows Start button in the system tray and typing in OneDrive and clicking Open, or alternatively, OneDrive will be visible in Windows Explorer.

 

Step 5: Upload the Files to OneDrive

Finally, upload the files you downloaded from Google Drive to OneDrive.

You can drag and drop files directly into your OneDrive folder or right-click file(s), select OneDrive and click “Move to OneDrive”. Make sure you have a good internet connection because the upload time will depend on the size of the files and your internet speed.

After you’ve completed these steps, your files will be safely stored in OneDrive. You’ll be able to access them from any device with internet access, just like you did on Google Drive. The transfer process is a great way to ensure your files are where you need them to be.

Hints and Tips

  • Make sure you have enough space on your computer to download the files from Google Drive.
  • Check your internet connection before starting the transfer to avoid any interruptions.
  • Consider transferring files in batches if you have a lot to move, to make the process more manageable. You can tackle the job over a period of time, rather than all at once.
  • Keep your Google Drive files organized to make it easier to find what you need to transfer.
  • Double-check that all files have been uploaded to OneDrive before deleting anything from Google Drive.
  • Look at this as an opportunity clean up your digital workspace and ensure files are exactly where you need them to be.

Frequently asked questions

Can I transfer files directly from Google Drive to OneDrive without downloading them to my computer?

No, currently there is no direct way to transfer files between the two services. You will need to download them to your computer first.

Will my files be deleted from Google Drive once I transfer them to OneDrive?

No, your files will remain in Google Drive until you decide to delete them. Transferring files to OneDrive is just making a copy.

How long does the transfer take?

Transfer time will be dependent on the size of the files, how many files you are transferring and your internet speed. It could take anywhere from minutes to several hours. It is recommended that transfers are done in batches, so you aren’t tied up for long periods of time.

Acknowledgements

The base information for this document is courtesy of Kermit Matthews who specialises in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices. The rest has been adapted to meet CECG requirements.

 

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