How to sync Google Docs to your PC, Dropbox-style

Ever wish your Google Docs account could perform the same syncing magic that Dropbox does? Now it can.

Working within the Cloud using Google Docs is a great way to ensure that your content is available whenever you need it. Well, almost whenever, as there are some situations (power/Internet outage, Google services down temporarily, etc.) where relying on the Cloud can leave you stuck. 

KumoSync is a tool that can prevent you from being stranded without your data. It works by syncing your Google Docs data to your PC (even your shared content), so you can work on your computer at work or home and have the changes uploaded for you automatically. Follow these seven steps to set the program up.

What you'll need:

• Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 or higher installed

• A Google account

• Microsoft Windows XP / Vista (32 & 64 Bit) / Windows 7 (32 & 64 Bit)

Begin by downloading and installing KumoSync. When exiting the installer, make sure the box is checked to load KumoSync immediately.

Step 1: Right-click on the KumoSync icon in the System Tray and select Settings.

Step 2: A new window will open with the Sync Mappings pane open by default. Click on New in the bottom right corner of this pane.

Step 3: Enter your Google account information in the window that appears.

Step 4: Select a local folder that you'd like synced with your Google documents. You can also choose an entire drive.

Step 5: Make sure the box labeled Enabled is checked in the lower left-hand corner.

Step 6: In the pane to the left of the Settings window, select the Preferences option. If you want your Google Docs to be synced between the Google servers and your computer automatically, the sync interval can be adjusted where it says Sync Interval. If you wish to disable automatic syncing, simply remove the check from the box labeled Enable automatic synchronization.

Step 7: Click OK in the bottom right to finish the setup process.

If you chose to allow automatic syncing, KumoSync will do its thing once the appropriate amount of time has passed. To sync manually, whether you enabled auto-syncing or not, just right click on the KumoSync icon in the System Tray and select Sync.