Update your browser to use Google Drive and other apps

Follow the steps below first. These simple checks can often fix the issue right away.

1. Make sure your browser is up to date

 Update your browser to get the best experience when you use Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides and Forms. 

2. Use an Incognito or Private Window

This is the fastest way to check if an issue is caused by your browser’s settings or extensions. A private window works by temporarily turning off most extensions and not using your saved browser data.

• In Chrome or Edge: Click the menuand select "New Incognito window."

• In Firefox: Click the menu and select "New private window."

• In Safari: Click "File" and select "New Private Window."

Try to use Google Drive in the new private window. If it works, the problem is likely a setting or an extension. Go to "Step 2: Check Your Browser’s Settings" to fix it.

If it does not work, go to the next check below.

3. Check Your Computer's Clock

An incorrect date or time on your computer can cause errors that stop Google Drive from loading. Make sure your computer's clock and time zone are correct.

• For Windows: Learn how to set your time and time zone.

• For macOS: Set the date and time automatically on your Mac.

If the private window test worked or if the problem continues, the next step is to check your browser's regular settings.

1. Turn off extensions

Extensions, like ad-blockers or security tools, can interfere with Google Drive. You can find the problem by turning them off one by one.

• Go to your browser’s extensions menu.

• Turn off one extension, then reload drive.google.com to see if it works.

• Repeat this for each extension until you find the one causing the issue.

2. Check your privacy settings

If your browser's privacy settings are too strict, they may block Google Drive.

In your browser's privacy and security settings, try changing the protection level from "Strict" to "Standard" or "Balanced." Then, close and reopen your browser.

3. Clear your browser's cache and data

Your browser might be storing old information that is causing the error. Clearing the cache and data for Google websites can solve this.

• Learn how to update your Mac OS X 10.6.8 and lower.
• Learn how to update your Mac OS X 10.6.7 and up.

If you have tried all the steps above and still see an error, the cause might be a specific setting you cannot change yourself.

If you are on a work or school computer

When you use a computer managed by your employer or school, an IT policy could be causing the issue. Your organization's IT department might have rules that force websites like Google Drive to work in an old, unsupported mode. You will need to contact your IT administrator for assistance.

If your computer or operating system cannot be updated

If your computer is older and you can no longer update its operating system, you will not be able to run modern web browsers. Newer browsers are required for security and to make sure websites like Google Drive work correctly.

This does not affect your data. All of your files in Google Drive are safe. Here are your options to access them:

1. Use a mobile device: You can install Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides on an Android phone, Android tablet, an iPhone, or an iPad

   • Android device: Learn about system requirements for Google Drive and Docs editors on Android.

   • iOS device: Learn about system requirements for Google Drive and Docs editors on iPhone and iPad.

2. Use a different computer: You can access Google Drive from any other computer that has a supported browser and operating system.