How to Use Google Docs Offline

Google Docs has recently introduced a feature allowing you to edit your work without being connected to the Internet. Though it's currently limited to word processing documents, the offline feature allows Google to compete with other, desktop-installed programs. The convenience of being able to use your Google Docs while offline is enhanced by the auto-sync feature that makes sure any changes you make are transferred to the online version once you come back online. Read on to learn how to use Google Docs offline.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Google Docs account
• Google Gears

1. Login to your Google Docs account. Locate and click on the "Offline" link in the top-corner of your documents list. A dialog box will appear explaining that you will need to install Google Gears, a plugin (or extension) that extends browser functionality to allow web applications to work offline. Click on the "Learn More" link to find out more about Google Gears or simply click on the "Get Google Gears Now" button to download Gears.

2. Check the box confirming that you trust the Google Docs site and hit the "Allow" button. Wait while Google Gears downloads, open and install the file and then restart your browser.

3. 

   Confirm that Gears has installed correctly and you have access to your documents. Click on the desktop shortcut for Google Docs and watch as the icon in the top, right-hand corner of your document list syncs information. When it's complete, you should see a green circle with a checkmark in it--as it's syncing the circle will have a circling arrow.

4. Disconnect from the Internet to make sure you can use Google Docs offline. Type "http://docs.google.com" into your browser's address line or use the desktop shortcut to access your documents. You should be able to open and edit, but will see a message at the top of the screen telling you you are working offline. The green indicator should also be gray when you work offline.

5. Use the same computer on which you made offline changes to log back into the Internet when you're ready to sync your work. Once the network is up and running, Google Docs should automatically detect and sync edits.

Tips & Warnings

• As this function is still in Beta, there may be times when it doesn't work. If the offline indicator is red instead of gray or green, you'll have to make edits later. However, if you've made changes that aren't saving, you'll either need to back them up with another program or keep the document open until you can connect to a network.
• Protect your online privacy! Only use Google Docs offline editing option on a personal computer.

Resources

• Google Docs
• Get Google Gears

[omghow]

on 4/5/2009 Thanks

[adrugay]

on 8/7/2008 Great tips. I haven't tried this yet but will need to soon. Thanks!