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Windows 11 updates can be disorienting, especially if they happen overnight and you show up in the morning to a computer that looks different and wants you to log in all over again. K12 Montana put together this walkthrough specifically for school staff at our supported districts - here's how to get back up and running quickly.
Step 1: Add Your Work Account
Click Add work account in the bottom left corner of the screen (or wherever Windows prompts you). Sign in using your school email address. You may be prompted for 2FA - have your phone or authenticator app ready. Click I agree and wait while it sets up.
Step 2: Set Up Google Drive for Desktop
After the Windows setup, Google Drive for Desktop will likely launch automatically. Click Get Started, then Sign in. A Microsoft Edge window may appear.
Step 3: Dismiss Microsoft Edge (The Friendly Way)
If Edge prompts you to import data, click Start without your data at the bottom. Uncheck the box about bringing over browser data regularly, and click Confirm and continue. Then close Edge.
Step 4: Sign into Google Drive
Sign in with your school email and password. Confirm 2FA. Once signed in, click through the Drive setup screens: choose folders to sync (check all boxes), click Next, then Got it. Set up Google Photos backup if prompted.
Step 5: Set Files to Stream
Click the Google Drive icon in the system tray. Go to Preferences, then the Google Drive tab. Select Stream files, click Continue and Save, then Restart.
Step 6: Pin Chrome and Google Drive to Your Taskbar
Open Google Chrome and sign in. Right-click the Chrome icon in the taskbar and select Pin to taskbar. For Google Drive, open it in Chrome, click the install icon in the address bar (the TV with a down arrow), click Install, then Pin to taskbar.
Where Are Your Old Files?
Open Google Drive in Chrome and look under Computers, then My laptop. Everything you synced before the update is there.
Getting updates and need help making sure your staff stays productive? Contact K12 Montana Inc. We support Montana schools through technology transitions of all kinds.