How to Fix Google Drive Not Working on Windows 8 After End of Support

If you have recently noticed that Google Drive is not working properly on your Windows 8 computer, you are not alone. This issue has become more common after Google ended official support for Windows 8. Many users face syncing problems and errors when trying to access their files.

In this article, we will guide you through simple and effective steps to fix Google Drive on Windows 8. No advanced technical knowledge is required, and each step is explained clearly.

By following these instructions, you can improve Google Drive’s performance and continue managing your files smoothly. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Understanding why these steps are necessary will help you maintain Google Drive’s functionality despite the end of official support.

Quick Note: Important Checks Before You Begin

Check Your Internet Connection: Google Drive needs a stable internet connection to sync files. Make sure your connection is working properly.
Verify Google Drive Account: Ensure you are logged into the correct Google account associated with your Drive files.
Update Windows 8: Though support ended, make sure your system has the latest available updates installed to avoid compatibility issues.
Confirm Google Drive Version: Use the latest version of Google Drive for desktop that supports Windows 8, as older versions may stop working.

Step 1: Restart Google Drive and Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary glitches. Closing Google Drive completely and restarting your PC refreshes system processes and network connections.

Right-click the Google Drive icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
Select Exit or Quit to close the app.
Wait for a few seconds, then open Google Drive again from the Start menu.
If this doesn’t work, restart your computer to clear any background issues.

Step 2: Check Google Drive Sync Settings

Incorrect sync settings can prevent files from updating properly. Confirm that your folders are selected for syncing.

Open Google Drive by clicking its icon.
Click the gear icon (⚙️) to open Preferences.
Under the My Computer or Google Drive section, check which folders are selected.
Make sure the folders you want synced have check marks.
If needed, add or remove folders to control sync behavior.

This step ensures that Google Drive knows exactly which files to keep updated between your PC and cloud storage.

Step 3: Clear Google Drive Cache

Sometimes cached files can cause sync errors. Clearing the cache can fix these problems.

Close Google Drive completely.
Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type %LOCALAPPDATA%GoogleDriveFS and press Enter.
Look for a folder named cache and delete its contents (do not delete the folder itself).
Restart Google Drive and check if syncing improves.

Clearing cache forces Google Drive to re-download files and metadata, often resolving syncing issues.

Step 4: Reinstall Google Drive for Desktop

Reinstalling the app replaces any corrupted files and ensures you have the latest compatible version.

Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.
Find Google Drive and select Uninstall.
Visit the official Google Drive download page.
Download the latest version that supports Windows 8.
Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions to complete installation.
Sign in with your Google account and set up folder syncing again.

This step is crucial when your existing Google Drive software has become unstable or outdated.

Step 5: Adjust Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, security software blocks Google Drive from working properly. Allow Google Drive through your firewall and antivirus to fix connectivity issues.

Open your firewall or antivirus program.
Find settings related to Application Control or Allowed Apps.
Add GoogleDriveFS.exe or googledrivesync.exe to the allowed list.
Save changes and restart Google Drive.

Allowing Google Drive through security software prevents unnecessary blocking of its network traffic.

Alternative Method: Use Google Drive Web Interface

If Google Drive app continues to misbehave on Windows 8, consider using the web version as an alternative.

Open your preferred browser.
Go to https://drive.google.com.
Log in with your Google account.
Upload, download, and manage files directly from the browser.

This method avoids compatibility issues and works on any operating system with internet access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I still use Google Drive on Windows 8 after support ended?

Yes, but Google no longer provides official updates or support. Some features may not work properly, so following troubleshooting steps is important.

Why does Google Drive stop syncing files?

Syncing may stop due to network problems, outdated software, corrupted cache, or security software blocking the app.

Is it safe to clear the Google Drive cache?

Yes, clearing the cache only removes temporary files and does not delete your actual data stored in the cloud.

Will reinstalling Google Drive delete my files?

No, your files remain safe in Google Drive cloud storage. Reinstalling only affects the app on your computer.

What should I do if Google Drive shows error messages?

Check the exact error message, restart the app, ensure a stable internet connection, and update or reinstall the software.

When Nothing Works: Final Resort Options

If you have tried all the steps above and Google Drive still does not work on Windows 8, consider these options:

Use Google Drive on a Different Device: Access your files from a Windows 10/11 PC or a Mac where Google Drive is fully supported.
Contact Google Support: Visit the Google Drive Help Center for official resources and assistance.
Upgrade Your Operating System: Consider upgrading to a newer Windows version to ensure compatibility and security.

Conclusion

Google Drive may face issues on Windows 8 due to the end of official support, but many problems can be fixed with simple troubleshooting. Start by restarting the app and checking your sync settings. Clear cache and reinstall the software if needed. Don’t forget to allow Google Drive through your firewall and antivirus.

If all else fails, using the web interface or upgrading your system are good alternative solutions. By following these steps carefully, you can keep your files accessible and syncing smoothly on your Windows 8 computer.