Can I download a Google Drive folder as a ZIP without Google Takeout?

Yes. AstoundDrive lets you download individual folders as encrypted ZIPs directly from Google Drive — no need to use Google Takeout or wait for email links.

Does downloading a Google Drive folder as ZIP preserve subfolders?

Yes. AstoundDrive recursively downloads the entire folder tree up to 20 levels deep, preserving all subfolder structures inside the ZIP.

Is the ZIP file encrypted when downloading from Google Drive?

With AstoundDrive, yes. Your ZIP is encrypted with AES-256 before being saved. Google's native download does not encrypt ZIPs.

Step-by-Step Guide

How to Download a Google Drive
Folder as a ZIP File

Download any Google Drive folder as an AES-256 encrypted ZIP file — for free, with no API keys or OAuth configuration. Here's exactly how.

How to download Google Drive folder as encrypted ZIP

Install AstoundDrive from the Chrome Web Store

AstoundDrive is a free Chrome extension. Visit the Chrome Web Store, click "Add to Chrome," and the extension installs in seconds. No account creation, no sign-up forms.

Install AstoundDrive

Open Google Drive

Navigate to drive.google.com and sign in with your Google account. AstoundDrive works with both personal and Workspace accounts.

Select a Folder and Click "Download ZIP"

Right-click on any folder in your Google Drive. AstoundDrive adds a "Download ZIP" button directly in the Google Drive toolbar. Click it to start the download process. The extension detects the selected folder automatically.

Set Your Encryption Password

A modal appears asking you to set a password for AES-256 encryption. The built-in strength meter provides real-time feedback. Your password never leaves your device — all encryption happens locally in your browser.

Download Your Encrypted ZIP

Click download. AstoundDrive recursively fetches all files and subfolders (up to 20 levels deep), encrypts them with AES-256, and saves the ZIP directly to your device. Google Workspace files (Docs, Sheets, Slides) are automatically exported to standard formats.

Why Use AstoundDrive Instead of Google's Built-in Download?

AES-256 Encryption

Google's native download creates unencrypted ZIPs. AstoundDrive adds password protection with military-grade AES-256 encryption.

No Size Limits on Folders

Google Drive often fails on large folder downloads. AstoundDrive handles folders of any size with real-time progress tracking.

SHA-256 Checksums

Verify your download is complete with cryptographic file integrity checksums. Google Drive's native download offers no verification.

Google Workspace Export

Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides are automatically converted to .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx formats inside your ZIP.

Ready to Download Your Google Drive Folders?

Install AstoundDrive — free forever, no account needed.

Install AstoundDrive — Free

How to Download a Google Drive Folder as a ZIP File