Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Must be in C:\Program Files\Google\Drive\BackupAndSync or C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\Drive\BackupAndSync (BackupAndSync.exe)
Warning
Many processes normal
Multiple worker processes may run to handle per-folder sync, conflicts, and cache
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Pause syncing via the tray icon or quit the app; to prevent startup, disable it in Task Manager or uninstall
What is GoogleBackupAndSync.exe?
googlebackupandsync.exe is the executable for Google's legacy Backup and Sync desktop client. It monitors and syncs files between your computer and Google Drive by observing selected folders, uploading local changes, and downloading cloud updates, all while managing conflicts.
This process comprises a UI component, a background sync service, and a file watcher that tracks changes in synced folders. It communicates via the Drive API, maintains a local cache and metadata, and uses delta syncing to reduce network use while keeping files consistent.
Quick Fact: Backup and Sync architecture uses distinct processes for UI, syncing, and file events to improve reliability and update responsiveness.
Types of googlebackupandsync.exe Processes
- UI Process: User interface and tray interactions
- Sync Engine: Core background synchronization
- File Watcher: Monitors changes in selected folders
- Network Communicator: Handles Google Drive API requests
- Cache/Index: Maintains local metadata and cache
- Conflict Resolver: Manages file conflicts automatically or prompts user
Is googlebackupandsync.exe Safe?
Yes, googlebackupandsync.exe is safe when it's the legitimate file from Google downloaded from official sources (google.com/drive or the Google Drive installer).
Is googlebackupandsync.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real googlebackupandsync.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware sometimes disguises itself using similar names to trick users.
How to Tell if googlebackupandsync.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Program Files\Google\Drive\BackupAndSync\BackupAndSync.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\Drive\BackupAndSync\BackupAndSync.exe. Any googlebackupandsync.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the process in Task Manager → Open file location → Right-click BackupAndSync.exe → Properties → Digital Signatures. Should show "Google LLC".
- Resource Usage: Normal usage is 1-12% CPU per active sync, 40-200 MB total memory. Extremely high usage when the app is idle is suspicious.
- Behavior: Google Backup and Sync should run only when syncing or when the UI is open. Continuous background activity with no user interaction may indicate malware.
Red Flags: If googlebackupandsync.exe is located in unusual folders (like Temp, AppData, or System32), runs when not started, has no digital signature, or uses excessive resources constantly, scan your system with antivirus software immediately. Beware of similarly-named files like "googlebackupandsync32.exe" or "backupandsync.exe" from untrusted sources.
Why Is googlebackupandsync.exe Running on My PC?
googlebackupandsync.exe runs to keep Google Drive in sync. It may run during active file changes, after startup, or when a background sync is configured.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Sync Use: You are currently syncing files between your PC and Google Drive; each synced folder can spawn a worker process
- Background File Watching: The file watcher tracks changes in one or more synced folders and signals the sync engine to transfer updates
- Startup Launch: The Drive client is configured to start when Windows boots, launching the backup/sync stack automatically
- Team Drives and Shared Folders: Syncing shared drives or team folders can create additional background processes for metadata and conflict resolution
- Cache and Metadata Updates: Local cache maintenance and index updates occur to reflect cloud changes and to speed up repeated operations
Can I Disable or Remove googlebackupandsync.exe?
Yes, you can disable googlebackupandsync.exe. It's safe to pause syncing or quit the app when not needed, and you can uninstall entirely if you no longer use Google Drive.
How to Stop googlebackupandsync.exe
- Pause Sync via Tray Icon: Click the Google Drive tray icon and choose Pause syncing or Quit to stop all activity
- Close the UI: Close the Drive app window or use the Exit option from the tray menu
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Google Drive / Backup and Sync
- Stop Background Service: In Settings → Preferences, turn off background syncing options
- Sign out or Remove Account: Sign out of the Google account from the Drive app to stop syncing
How to Uninstall Google Backup and Sync
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Google Drive Backup and Sync → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Google Drive Backup and Sync → Uninstall
- ✔ During uninstall, choose to remove local Google Drive folder if you no longer need local copies
Common Problems: Sync Issues or High Resource Use
If googlebackupandsync.exe is not behaving as expected, try these common fixes and checks.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Too many files in the root of a synced folder: Pause sync, then selectively re-add folders or exclude large folders to reduce load
- Network interruptions: Check your internet connection, disable VPNs, or switch to a stable network
- Sync conflicts: Resolve conflicts by choosing one version or merging changes in the Google Drive web UI
- Outdated client: Update Google Backup and Sync to the latest version via the Drive settings
- Stale cache: Clear drive cache or reset the app from Settings → Advanced → Reset
- Antivirus interference: Ensure Google Drive folders are whitelisted in your antivirus or temporarily disable scanning for Drive folders
Quick Fixes:
1. Pause syncing from the tray icon and verify which folders are active
2. Restart the Google Drive desktop app
3. Clear cache: Settings → Advanced → Reset
4. Update to the latest version
5. Check network stability and firewall settings
Frequently Asked Questions
Is googlebackupandsync.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate googlebackupandsync.exe is part of Google's Backup and Sync desktop client. Verify the file location is as expected: C:\Program Files\Google\Drive\BackupAndSync\BackupAndSync.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Google\Drive\BackupAndSync\BackupAndSync.exe and ensure a valid Google LLC signature.
Why is googlebackupandsync.exe using high CPU?
During initial or large-scale syncing, CPU usage can spike. Use the tray Task Manager, pause nonessential folders, and ensure you have network connectivity and updated software.
Can I delete googlebackupandsync.exe?
You can uninstall Google Backup and Sync from Windows Settings → Apps or Control Panel. Deleting the executable manually is not recommended; reinstall if needed.
Can I disable googlebackupandsync.exe from starting at boot?
Yes. Use Task Manager → Startup tab to disable Google Drive / Backup and Sync, or quit the app from the tray to stop automatic startup.
Why are files not syncing after installation?
Check that the correct folders are selected for syncing, ensure login is active, verify network access, and review the Drive status in the app. Re-authorize if necessary.
How do I stop Google Drive from syncing certain folders?
Open the Drive app settings and deselect the folders you do not want to sync, or create selective sync rules to limit data transfer.