I need to find the file ID for specific files stored in my Google Drive account and I’m working on a Windows machine. I’ve been trying to figure out the most straightforward method to accomplish this task, particularly through PowerShell commands or scripts.
I’m looking for a solution that doesn’t require too much complexity since I just need to grab the unique identifier for files that are already uploaded to my Google Drive. Is there a simple PowerShell approach or command that can help me extract these file IDs? I would prefer a method that works reliably on Windows systems.
Any suggestions or code examples would be really helpful. Thanks in advance for any guidance you can provide!
To get a Google Drive file ID with PowerShell, use the Google Drive API. You’ll need OAuth2 authentication first - it looks intimidating but it’s necessary for secure access. Hit the https://www.googleapis.com/drive/v3/files endpoint with your access token using Invoke-RestMethod for a GET request. Specify which fields you want to keep the output clean - the file ID shows up in the ‘id’ field. This method’s been solid for me and should get you the file IDs you’re after.
Had the exact same issue a few months ago with my backup scripts. Ended up using Google Apps Script instead - way easier. Just create a quick script that uses DriveApp.getFilesByName() to find your files, then log the getId() results. Run it and grab the file IDs from the execution log to use in your PowerShell workflow. Takes maybe five minutes to set up, and you skip all the PowerShell API auth headaches. The script runs in Google’s environment, so no local tokens needed.
honestly, just check the url when u open the file in ur browser. the file id sits right between /d/ and /view - no api calls needed if ur only grabbing a few ids. works every time and skips all the auth headaches.