Low-light photograph of hands pressing keys on a laptop, suggesting backup and sync activity, in deep shadow with muted tones.

How To Download and Install Backup and Sync App in Windows?

Keeping important files in sync across devices is easier when the Backup and Sync application is set up on your Windows computer. This guide walks through the download and installation steps so you can get the app running and start syncing your folders in a few minutes.

Before You Begin

  • A Windows PC running a supported version of the operating system with administrator access.
  • A stable internet connection to download the installer.
  • A Google account, which the Backup and Sync app uses to store and sync your files.
  • Enough free disk space on the drive where you plan to keep the synced folder.

Step 1: Download the Installer

  1. Open your preferred web browser on the Windows computer.
  2. Search for Backup and Sync from Google or go directly to the official Google download page.
  3. On the download page, click the Download button for Windows.
  4. Read the Terms of Service and click Agree and Download to begin the file transfer.
  5. Once the file finishes downloading, note the location of the installer (usually the Downloads folder).

Step 2: Run the Installer

  1. Double-click the downloaded installbackupandsync.exe file.
  2. If Windows SmartScreen asks for confirmation, click Run anyway or confirm the action in the User Account Control prompt.
  3. Wait while the installer extracts the required files and prepares the application.
Tip: Close other open programs before installing so the setup can complete without interruption.

Step 3: Sign In and Choose Folders

  1. When the Backup and Sync window opens, click Get Started.
  2. Sign in with the Google account you want to use for syncing.
  3. Choose which folders on your computer should sync with Google Drive (My Drive, sub-folders, or all folders).
  4. Under Back up to Google Drive, select the folders and file types you want uploaded.
  5. Decide whether to upload photos and videos in original or high-quality mode.

Step 4: Finish the Setup

  1. Review your selections and click Start to begin the initial sync.
  2. The Backup and Sync icon will appear in the system tray, indicating the app is running.
  3. Right-click the tray icon at any time to pause syncing, open Google Drive in your browser, or adjust preferences.

Troubleshooting Quick Checks

  • If the installer does not launch, right-click it and choose Run as administrator.
  • If sync stalls, verify that your firewall or security software is not blocking the connection.
  • If files are missing, confirm that the folder source path is still selected in Preferences.

Related Guides

Users often pair this setup with other Webroot support articles. Learn how to install Webroot on endpoint devices or return to the main support hub for additional help.