HOW-TO: First Time Login and Initial Google Workspace Login

Setting Up Google Workspace and Google Drive on Your New Workstation

Introduction

This article guides you through the initial setup of your workstation, specifically focusing on configuring Google Workspace applications and Google Drive. If you are logging into your workstation for the first time, follow these steps to ensure all necessary applications are correctly set up. If you are moving from workstation to workstation, this setup is required each time you switch to a new workstation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Initial Workstation Login

1. Log in with your credentials:

   • If your workstation is part of a domain, use your on-premise or cloud credentials to log in.

   • This will create a profile associated with your username on the workstation.

2. Google Workspace Configuration

1. Access Google Workspace:

   • Open your preferred web browser.

   • Navigate to the Google Workspace login page.

   • Enter your Google Workspace credentials (your company email and password).

2. Set Up Applications:

   • Once logged in, ensure that core applications like Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Docs, and other Google Workspace tools are accessible.

   • You may need to grant necessary permissions and configure basic settings during this initial login.

3. Configuring Google Drive

1. Authentication:

   • Google Drive requires authentication with your Google Workspace credentials.

   • Open Google Drive in your web browser and log in using your Google Workspace credentials.

2. Download and Install Google Drive for Desktop:

   • Go to the Google Drive download page.

   • Download the Google Drive for Desktop application suitable for your operating system.

   • Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

3. Set Up Google Drive for Desktop:

   • After installation, open the Google Drive for Desktop application.

   • Sign in with your Google Workspace credentials.

   • Follow the prompts to configure the application. This will include setting up synchronization preferences and selecting folders to sync.

4. Add Google Drive to File Explorer:

   • Once configured, Google Drive will add a drive letter to your file explorer (e.g., “G: Drive”).

   • This allows you to access Google Drive files directly from your file explorer, making file management seamless.

4. Alternative Setup If Google Drive for Desktop Is Already Installed

1. Open Google Drive for Desktop:

   • Go to the search bar at the bottom left of the taskbar.

   • Type in “Drive” to locate the Google Drive for Desktop application.

   • Click on the app to open it.

2. Sign In:

   • When prompted, sign in with your Google Workspace credentials through the browser.

   • This step will authenticate your access to Google Drive and sync your files.

Important Note for Users Switching Workstations

• If you are moving from workstation to workstation, you will need to follow these setup steps each time you log into a new workstation. This ensures that your applications and Google Drive are correctly configured on the new machine.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Re-authentication: If you encounter issues accessing Google Drive, ensure you are logged in with the correct Google Workspace credentials.

• Permissions: Verify that all necessary permissions are granted during the setup process.

• Network Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection to complete the setup and synchronization process.

Conclusion

Following these steps will help you successfully set up Google Workspace and Google Drive on your new workstation. Should you encounter any issues, please contact your IT support team for further assistance.