Google Drive is a wildly popular cloud-based tool and storage service. It provides a simple and easy method to store images and other files in one central location. Additionally, can create spreadsheets, use maps, create word documents, and even share them with friends and co-workers online. As good and as convenient as Google Drive is, though, China restricts all Google services in their country. If you are going to China or are already there, you will need some patience with their heavy censorship policies. Additionally, you’ll want to connect to a VPN.
Quickstart Guide to Use Google Drive in China
While you may have issues from time to time, following our instructions will help. You’ll want to do this before you get there.
- Sign up for ExpressVPN (includes a 30-day money back guarantee).
- Once you have opened the client, select a server in the closest area to you (outside of China).
- Open a browser or the app and connect to Google Drive. Now, log in with your credentials (those are the same ones you use for GMail).
- Now that you are logged in, you can interact with your Drive files or create new ones.
Why is Google Drive Blocked in China?
Some consider China to be in a transitional period. However, the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) is still desperate to hold on to its power. The biggest way they do that is by controlling information coming into the country. Part of that control is blocking services like Google Drive there. They do that is with what many refer to as the Great Firewall of China. They have some of the strongest internet censorship worldwide.
Is it Legal to Unblock Google Drive In China?
The Chinese government has a love/hate relationship with VPNs. While they could outright ban them completely, they don’t. That is because they can be useful and necessary for some companies. Even though China does threaten to ban them, it never does. That does not mean you won’t have issues from time to time, but VPNs are still legal to use in China so you should be able to use one to access Google Drive.
Why Can’t I connect to a VPN While in China?
As we mentioned earlier, you’ll need some patience to get around the GFC (Great Firewall of China). There are some things you need to look at if you are having this issue. When you get the issue resolved, you’ll be able to access Google Drive.
- Check the date – Sometimes, the government cracks down on VPN usage more than other times. Those include anniversaries like June 4th and other nationalist holidays. If you can’t connect, it may be because of that reason.
- Switch to other servers or protocols – From time to time, switching the countries or protocols you connect to can make a difference. For instance, if you are using Lightway with ExpressVPN, try switching the protocol to OpenVPN UDP. Additionally, some countries may still allow you to connect while others don’t.
- Try a different time of day – This could make a difference with your VPN activity. Some parts of the day are better than others.
You Can Rely on ExpressVPN to Unblock Google Drive in China
ExpressVPN is our pick for unblocking content. Many games are blocked around the world as different countries have separate rating systems. Many mobile games like Pokemon Go have exclusives in each region. Those wanting to unblock these can use a VPN. A VPN will give you access to blocked content by masking your IP and giving you a new one. ExpressVPN has 160 server locations to choose from. You can use it on up to 5 devices at a time. The service can be used on PlayStation, Xbox, Google Stadia, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, Linux, and more. ExpressVPN will help you access blocked content.
ExpressVPN is a great service that will protect your privacy. Your IP will be masked to help you get access to geo-blocked content. The company also does not keep active logs of its users. Keep your data safe, while streaming shows, playing video games, and searching the internet. We are excited to share our exclusive offer which will help you get an extra 3 months free. ExpressVPN provides a 30-day money-back guarantee that will help you try out the service for yourself.
