Google Drive is a file storage service that can also be used for web hosting. In this blog, we will explore a better way to host a website on Google Drive. Hosting your website on Google Drive has several benefits, such as a familiar interface, no need for FTP software, the ability to manage your website files within Google Drive, 15 gigabytes of storage, and the option to use your own custom domain name. Best of all, it's completely free. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider, such as potentially slower performance compared to other hosting options and the inability to support databases. If you're looking to host dynamic websites for free, we recommend checking out our cheap Webhosting service options.
When to Use Google Drive for Website Hosting
While Google Drive may not be suitable for high-performance websites, it can be a handy solution in certain cases. For example, if you want to showcase your designs to a client, test a website, practice coding, or host a small fun project, Google Drive can be a convenient option.
Steps to Host a Website on Google Drive
- Create a folder in Google Drive with the same name as your domain name.
- Open the folder and ensure that it contains a file named 'index.html'.
- Create a new Google Drive account specifically for hosting your website. Avoid using this account for any other purpose.
- Drag and drop your website folder into your Google Drive.
- Right-click on the folder, select "Rename", and add 'www' before your domain name.
- Right-click again and select "Get link". Change the sharing settings to "Anyone with the link".
- Click on the link icon and enter your primary email address to easily access the files from your primary Google Drive account.
- Open a new tab and go to 'drv.tw'.
- Sign in with the new Google account you just created and allow the service to access your new Google Drive.
- Copy the URL provided, which will be your website's URL, and open it in your browser to check if your website is online.
Add Your Own Domain Name
To add your own domain name to your website hosted on Google Drive, follow these steps:
- Go to the registrar where you bought your domain name (e.g., namecheap.com).
- In the DNS settings, remove the current name servers.
- Add a new CNAME record with 'WWW' in the host field and the website URL (copied previously) in the value field. Remove the HTTPS prefix and any text after 'drv.tw'.
- Set the TTL (Time to Live) to 30 minutes and save the changes.
- Add another record for URL redirect. In the host field, enter "@" and in the value field, type 'HTTP' followed by your own domain name.
- Save the changes and open a new tab.
- Type your domain name in the address bar to check if your website is online.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully hosted your website on Google Drive for free. If your website is not visible immediately, don't worry. It may take up to 48 hours for the DNS changes to propagate.
