Proton Drive

Proton Drive is a privacy-focused cloud storage solution developed by the team behind Proton Mail.

Designed with security at its core, Proton Drive for PC offers end-to-end encrypted file storage that ensures only you can access your data—not even Proton itself.



Unlike mainstream cloud storage platforms that scan files or rely on server-side encryption, it uses zero-knowledge encryption, making it an attractive choice for individuals, professionals, and businesses that value confidentiality.

Available as a web app and a native Windows desktop application, it allows users to store, sync, share, and collaborate on files securely.

It supports documents, photos, videos, and large files, while also offering encrypted online document and spreadsheet tools through Proton Docs and Proton Sheets.

With servers located in Switzerland and protected by strict privacy laws, Proton Drive positions itself as a trustworthy alternative to Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox.



Key Features

End-to-End Encrypted Storage: All files are encrypted on your device before upload, ensuring zero-knowledge privacy.

Secure File Sync: Sync folders between your Windows PC and the cloud with automatic background updates.

File Sharing Links: Share files via encrypted links with optional passwords and access control.

Large File Support: Upload and securely share large files, with higher limits available on paid plans.

File Version History: Restore previous versions of files to protect against accidental changes or deletions.

Photo Storage: Store and organize personal photos with the same end-to-end encryption.

Proton Docs: Create and collaborate on encrypted documents directly in your browser.

Proton Sheets: Build and share encrypted spreadsheets without exposing data.

Business-Ready Controls: Team access management, collaboration tools, and professional plans.

Cross-Platform Access: Access files via web browser or Windows desktop app from anywhere.

User Interface

The app features a clean, minimalist interface that prioritizes clarity and usability. The web interface is responsive and intuitive, with clear navigation for files, shared items, and recent activity.



File actions such as upload, share, download, and version history are easily accessible via contextual menus.

The Windows desktop app integrates seamlessly with the operating system, allowing you to work with files locally while syncing changes automatically in the background.

The design avoids clutter, making it suitable for both technical and non-technical users. While not as feature-dense as some mainstream competitors, the interface is polished and purposeful, reflecting Proton’s privacy-first philosophy.

Installation and Setup

Installing Proton Drive on Windows is straightforward. You download the desktop app from Proton’s official website, install it like any standard PC application, and log in with your Proton account.

During setup, you select which folders you want to sync between your PC and Proton Drive.

For users who prefer not to install software, the web version works directly in a browser with no configuration required. Security keys and encryption are handled automatically, so there is no complex setup process.

Advanced users can further secure their account with two-factor authentication and recovery keys.



How to Use

1. Create or sign in to your Proton account.
2. Download and install the Windows app or open the web app.
3. Choose folders on your PC to sync with Proton Drive.
4. Upload files by dragging and dropping or using the upload button.
5. Access your files from any device via the web interface.
6. Share files by generating a secure sharing link.
7. Set optional passwords or revoke access at any time.
8. Use Proton Docs or Proton Sheets for encrypted collaboration.

FAQs

Is Proton Drive really end-to-end encrypted?
Yes. Files are encrypted on your device before upload, and Proton cannot access your data.

Can I sync files automatically on Windows?
Yes. The Windows desktop app enables continuous background file synchronization.

What file types can I store?
You can store any file type, including documents, photos, videos, and archives.

Can I share files securely with others?
Yes. Shared links are encrypted and can be protected with passwords or disabled at any time.

Is Proton Drive suitable for businesses?
Yes. It offers professional plans with collaboration tools and user management.

Alternatives

Tresorit: Secure cloud storage aimed at enterprises with advanced security controls.

pCloud: Includes client-side encryption as an add-on but lacks some of Tresorit’s business features.

Box: Enterprise-focused with robust collaboration tools but weaker encryption compared to this app.

Google Drive: Popular cloud storage with strong collaboration tools but limited privacy.

OneDrive: Deep Windows integration, but data is accessible to Microsoft.

Sync.com: Privacy-focused cloud storage with end-to-end encryption.

Pricing

Proton Free – 5 GB
A free entry-level plan offering 5 GB of end-to-end encrypted cloud storage for files, photos, and documents, plus access to Proton’s secure online document and spreadsheet editor. Ideal for basic personal use and testing Proton Drive’s privacy features.

Drive Plus – 200 GB - $4.99 /month
Designed for individual users who need more space, Drive Plus includes 200 GB of encrypted storage, file version history recovery, and full access to online document and spreadsheet editing. It’s a solid upgrade for everyday backups and secure file syncing.

Proton Unlimited – 500 GB - $12.99 /month
A bundled plan that combines 500 GB of encrypted cloud storage with Proton’s full privacy ecosystem, including premium email features, ultra-fast VPN, encrypted password manager, and advanced account protection. Best value for privacy-focused power users.

Proton Duo – 2 TB - $19.99 /month
Built for two users, Proton Duo offers 2 TB of shared encrypted storage along with all Proton premium services. It supports multiple custom email addresses, strong account protection, and secure collaboration, making it ideal for couples or small teams.

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11
• Processor: Standard x64 processor
• RAM: Minimum 4 GB recommended
• Internet Connection: Required for sync and cloud access
• Browser: Latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari for web access

PROS

• True end-to-end encryption with zero-knowledge privacy
• Strong focus on security and data protection
• Clean and intuitive user interface
• Reliable Windows file synchronization
• Integrated encrypted documents and spreadsheets
• Swiss privacy laws and independent infrastructure
• Flexible pricing with free and premium plans

CONS

• Collaboration features are more basic than Google Drive
• Smaller ecosystem compared to mainstream providers
• No real-time co-editing parity with Google Docs
• Not ideal for users who prioritize integrations over privacy

Conclusion

Proton Drive is an excellent choice for users who prioritize privacy, security, and data ownership above all else.

While it may lack some of the advanced collaboration and integration features found in mainstream cloud storage platforms, it more than compensates with strong encryption, transparent security practices, and a clean, reliable user experience.