How to Get Google Apps on Windows 11 – A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 17, 2025

Google apps like Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Calendar are staples for productivity, but you might wonder how to access them efficiently on a Windows 11 PC. While Google doesn’t provide a dedicated Windows app for all services, there are several ways to get Google apps working seamlessly.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to get Google apps on Windows 11 step by step, covering browser access, PWA installation, and desktop app alternatives.

Key Takeaways

  • Google apps can be accessed via web browsers, PWAs, or third-party desktop clients.
  • Installing Google apps as PWAs provides an app-like experience.
  • Desktop tools like Backup and Sync or Drive for Desktop integrate Google services with Windows Explorer.

Why Use Google Apps on Windows 11?

  • Unified workflow: Keep Gmail, Drive, Docs, and Calendar accessible in one place.
  • Offline access: Some Google apps support offline editing.
  • Productivity: Desktop integration allows drag-and-drop file management.

Method 1: Access Google Apps via Web Browser

The simplest way to use Google apps:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or any browser.
  2. Visit the respective service:
    • Gmail: https://mail.google.com
    • Google Drive: https://drive.google.com
    • Google Docs: https://docs.google.com
    • Google Calendar: https://calendar.google.com
  3. Sign in with your Google account.

🔒 Tip: Bookmark these URLs for quick access.

Method 2: Install Google Apps as Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

Progressive Web Apps allow Google apps to run like native Windows apps.

  1. Open Chrome or Edge and go to the Google app URL.
  2. Click the three-dot menu → More Tools → Create Shortcut.
  3. Check Open as window and click Create.
  4. The app will appear in your Start Menu and Taskbar.

Benefits of PWAs:

  • Launch from Start Menu like a regular app.
  • Runs in a separate window without browser tabs.
  • Supports notifications.

Method 3: Use Google Drive for Desktop

Google Drive for Desktop integrates Google Drive with Windows Explorer:

  1. Download Drive for Desktop from Google’s website.
  2. Install and sign in with your Google account.
  3. Choose between streaming files or mirroring files to your PC.
  4. Access Google Drive directly from File Explorer.

Method 4: Use Backup and Sync (Older Alternative)

Although Google is transitioning to Drive for Desktop, Backup and Sync still works for syncing files:

  1. Download Backup and Sync from Google.
  2. Install, sign in, and choose folders to sync.
  3. Files will appear in File Explorer.

Method 5: Third-Party Google App Launchers

Some apps act as launchers for multiple Google services:

  • Shift – Multi-account and workspace manager.
  • Rambox – Combines Gmail, Calendar, and Drive in one interface.
  • Franz – Supports messaging and email services including Gmail.

These tools keep everything accessible without constantly switching tabs.

Method 6: Use Microsoft Store Alternatives

  • Web Catalog Apps: Allows you to convert web apps into Windows apps.
  • Nativefier: Open-source tool to create desktop apps from web pages.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

PWAs Not Installing

  • Ensure Chrome or Edge is updated.
  • Enable Install apps from browser settings.

Google Drive for Desktop Not Syncing

  • Check your internet connection.
  • Make sure Drive is signed in.
  • Restart the Drive app.

Notifications Not Working

  • Allow notifications in browser settings or Windows Action Center.

Pros and Cons of Each Method

Method Pros Cons
Browser Access No installation, universal Requires browser tab open
PWA App-like, notifications Slightly heavier on RAM
Drive for Desktop Integrates with Explorer Uses disk space
Backup and Sync Legacy support Being phased out
Third-party launchers Multi-account management Third-party dependency

Conclusion

Getting Google apps on Windows 11 is easy once you know the options. Whether you use web browser access, PWAs, Drive for Desktop, or third-party launchers, you can seamlessly integrate Gmail, Drive, Docs, and Calendar into your workflow.

Choose the method that matches your work style — lightweight browser, full-featured desktop integration, or multi-app launcher — and stay productive on Windows 11.

FAQs

1. Can I use Google Docs offline on Windows 11?
Yes — enable offline mode in Google Docs settings in Chrome.

2. Do PWAs work without internet?
Some features work offline, like Google Docs or Drive files set to offline mode.

3. Will Google Drive for Desktop sync with OneDrive?
Yes, but files are stored in separate folders unless manually combined.

4. Are third-party launchers safe?
Most are safe, but always download from official sources.

5. Can I pin Google apps to the Taskbar?
Yes — PWAs and desktop shortcuts can be pinned for quick access.

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