While using Google Drive you might discover a new folder tmp.drivedownload on your Desktop or My Documents directory. Before we head to the question whether it is safe to find duplicate content inside tmp.drivedownload folder, let us first understand what this folder is all about and the purpose behind its creation.

Continuous usage of Google Drive can bring about huge benefits for the user, but it might just lead to the duplication of data as well. The user might not be careful in organizing their data, and they will end up creating duplicates this way. Use Clone Files Checker for a swift and perfect duplicate file delete operation.

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What Is tmp.drivedownload Folder All About?

As you might have already guessed, this folder is automatically created folder by the Google Drive Desktop synchronization app.

tmp.drivedownload is a temporary folder. It is created when you download any document or file from the Google Drive server. It contains files as part of Google Drive cache during the download process. If you further investigate, you might be shocked to find that the folder size is too large, sometimes in several GBs.

Is It Safe To Delete Duplicate Files Inside tmp.drivedownload Folder?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to delete the contents of tmp.drivedownload folder that are duplicates. However, Google Drive client application must be closed before you attempt to delete these files. This is because no files can be deleted while they are being used. You can confirm the same by checking the Google Drive application icon in the notification area of your Taskbar.

Safely Remove Duplicate Files in tmp.drivedownload Folder

First, quit the Google Drive app completely. Here’s how:

1. Click on the upward arrow on the right side of your Taskbar, near the Date-Time Area.
2. Right click the Google Drive icon, and 3 dots horizontal menu.
3. Select the Quit or Pause option. Be sure to re-run Google Drive app after finishing up the procedure.

Now, it is safe to search for duplicates.

1. Download and install Clone Files Checker.
2. On the left hand side of your screen, you’ll see the Select Drive/ Folder section. Click on the Include to Scan tab.
3. Click on the Add button, and choose the tmp.drivedownload folder.
4. Click on OK.
5. Optionally, you can add specific directories to the Ignore List. Simply click on the Exclude from Scan tab. Click on Add, select your directory.
6. Select one of the following Search Options:
   1. All Files: This option scans all file types including documents, images, videos, archives, and music. With this option, there is greater chance of freeing up larger storage space.
   2. Custom: This allows you to customize the scan. You can set specific file type filters.
7. Another optional feature allows you to specify an upper and lower limit for your file sizes. For example: Use the Ignore files smaller than option to skip files underneath certain size. Use the Ignore files larger than option to skip files above a certain limit.
8. Click on Start Search option. The scan will take place.
9. Once your files are scanned, you’ll now be prompted to choose one of the following options:
   1. Quick-Fix: This initiates a wizard where you can specify which duplicate files you want to get rid of, and what you would like to do with those files. You can either send off these duplicates to Recycle Bin or to a complete new folder.
   2. Review & Fix: This allows you to manually select files that you want to move/ remove. You can also automate the task using the “Select Duplicates” button and then using a selection criteria of your choice.