Tag: Google Workspace tools

Automatic download link for non-Google Workspace files in Google Drive

Ever wanted your users to simply click a button on your webpage and,💥, a file you saved on Google Drive is automatically downloaded for them?

Here have a look at two examples:

NOTE! Clicking the links above will automatically download the file described.

This quick tool allows you to do just that. It works with any file like:

  • Images e.g. *.png *.jpg.
  • Documents e.g. *.pdf *.doc.
  • Zip files e.g. *.zip *.7z.
  • Pretty much anything that isn’t a Google Workspace file like a Google Sheet, Google Doc, Google Slide.

Grab and set up the file

    1. Find the file you need to set up for auto-download.
    2. Righ-click the file.
    3. Select Get link.
    4. Ensure the settings says, Anyone with link can view.
    5. Select Copy link.
Google Drive get link example
Click to expand!

Create the link

*Wait for the converter to load.

Do no harm!

Yes, I guess this could be used for downloading some nefarious content. This little tool is designed to provide a convenience for you and the people you want to share your files with. Please consider other people when preparing a tool for them. Even a quick heads up in your own content might be a good idea:

  • Note! File will download automatically from Google Drive.
  • Note! Clicking this file will download it automatically.

What about my Google Workspace Files?

Not directly with this tool, I’m afraid. The simple answer is Google Workspace files are designed to be in Google Drive and online. Much better for you to share the file publically and then provide a link to the file.

However…

If you are intending on providing your Google Workspace files or folders for your users to download and use offline anyway then you could download the in advance. This will cause the Google Workspace files to be exported into an offline format. Then you can drag that converted file and put it back in your drive and share it. You will be able to complete the steps above then.

Also, if you are downloading an entire folder it will export it files into usually Microsoft formats for you automatically and save the entire document in a zip file. Then you can drag that zip file back into your Google Drive and convert with the above too.

Neat huh?

~Yagi