How to Fix Google Drive Keeps Deleting Files Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Google Drive is a popular cloud storage service that helps you keep your files safe and accessible from anywhere. However, some Windows 11 users face an issue where Google Drive keeps deleting files unexpectedly. This can be frustrating, especially if important documents or photos disappear without explanation.

Fortunately, there are simple ways to troubleshoot and fix this problem. By following a few basic steps, you can prevent your files from being deleted and ensure your data stays secure.

This article will guide you through easy, step-by-step solutions to stop Google Drive from deleting files on your Windows 11 PC.

Whether you’re new to Google Drive or just looking for a fix, these instructions are clear and beginner-friendly.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Make sure your Windows 11 system is updated to the latest version. Microsoft regularly releases fixes that improve system stability.
Check that you have a stable internet connection. Google Drive needs internet to sync files correctly.
Confirm that you are signed into the correct Google account associated with your Drive files.
Backup any important files outside of Google Drive, just in case something goes wrong during troubleshooting.

Step 1: Pause and Restart Google Drive Sync

Sometimes, temporary glitches in syncing cause files to disappear. Pausing and restarting the sync can refresh the connection between your PC and Google Drive.

Look for the Google Drive icon in the system tray (bottom right corner near the clock). It looks like a triangle made of green, yellow, and blue.
Click the icon, then click the Settings (gear) icon.
Select Pause syncing. Wait a minute.
After a brief pause, click the Google Drive icon again and choose Resume syncing.
Check if the deleted files reappear or stay safe.

Pausing sync stops Google Drive from making changes temporarily, while resuming forces it to re-check all files.

Step 2: Check Google Drive Trash and Restore Files

Google Drive may have moved files to the Trash instead of permanently deleting them. You can easily restore these files.

Go to Google Drive on the web and sign in.
On the left sidebar, click Trash.
Look for the missing files. If you find them, right-click the file and select Restore.
The files will return to their original folders and resync to your PC.

This step ensures you don’t lose files permanently because Google Drive keeps deleted files in Trash for 30 days.

Step 3: Verify Google Drive Folder Location and Sync Settings

If the Google Drive folder on your PC has been moved or changed, syncing may behave incorrectly and delete files.

Click the Google Drive icon in the system tray and open Settings.
Go to Preferences.
Check the Folder location under the Google Drive tab. Ensure it points to the correct and existing folder on your PC.
Also, review the sync options. Make sure Sync everything in My Drive is selected, or that the folders you want are included.

Correct folder location and sync settings prevent accidental deletion caused by syncing mismatches.

Step 4: Clear Google Drive Cache

Corrupt cache files can cause syncing issues, including unwanted file deletions. Clearing the cache resets Google Drive’s temporary storage.

Close Google Drive completely by right-clicking the icon in the system tray and selecting Quit.
Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
Type %USERPROFILE%AppDataLocalGoogleDriveFS and press Enter.
Delete the cache folder found inside.
Restart Google Drive from the Start menu.

This forces Google Drive to rebuild its cache and often fixes syncing and file deletion errors.

Step 5: Check for Conflicting Software or Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, third-party antivirus or firewall software can mistakenly block Google Drive actions, causing file deletions.

Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall software and check if the problem continues.
If the issue stops, add Google Drive to the antivirus whitelist or exclusion list.
Refer to your antivirus documentation for instructions on adding exclusions.

Allowing Google Drive to communicate freely with the internet and your PC ensures smooth syncing without interference.

Alternative Method: Reinstall Google Drive

If the above steps don’t help, reinstalling Google Drive can fix corrupted program files.

Open Settings on Windows 11 by pressing Windows + I.
Go to Apps > Installed apps.
Find Google Drive and click Uninstall.
After uninstalling, visit Google Drive’s official download page.
Download and install the latest version.
Sign in and set up sync again.

Reinstalling ensures you have a clean version of Google Drive without corrupted settings.

FAQs

Q: Why does Google Drive keep deleting my files?

A: This usually happens due to sync conflicts, incorrect folder locations, corrupted cache, or interference from antivirus software.

Q: Can I recover files deleted by Google Drive?

A: Yes, check the Trash folder in Google Drive on the web. Files remain there for 30 days before permanent deletion.

Q: Will reinstalling Google Drive delete my files?

A: No, uninstalling Google Drive only removes the app from your PC. Your files remain safe in the cloud.

Q: How can I prevent Google Drive from deleting files in the future?

A: Regularly check sync settings, keep your software updated, and avoid moving the Google Drive folder manually.

Q: Does Windows 11 have any known compatibility issues with Google Drive?

A: Generally, Google Drive works well with Windows 11, but occasional bugs or system updates may cause temporary issues.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the problem, consider these final steps:

Visit the Google Drive Help Center for official troubleshooting guides.
Contact Google Support directly for personalized assistance.
Check Windows 11 forums for any recent updates or patches related to Google Drive.
Consider using alternative cloud storage temporarily while the issue is resolved.

Backing up your important files outside of Google Drive before trying advanced fixes is always recommended.

Conclusion

Google Drive deleting files on Windows 11 can be a worrying problem, but most cases are fixable with simple steps. Start by restarting sync and checking the Trash folder, then move on to verifying folder locations and clearing cache.

Always ensure your system and Google Drive app are up to date, and watch out for antivirus interference. If needed, reinstalling the app can resolve deeper issues.

By following this guide, you can protect your files and enjoy a smooth Google Drive experience on Windows 11.