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Google Drive Backup Setup Guide ☁️

For self-hosted installations of NalamDesk, you need to configure your own Google Cloud Project to enable Google Drive backups. This ensures you have full control over your data and API usage quotas.

Why do I need this?​

Google requires an OAuth 2.0 Client ID and Client Secret to authorize third-party applications (like NalamDesk) to access your Google Drive. Since NalamDesk is open-source, these secrets cannot be embedded in the application code securely. You are the owner of the application instance.

Prerequisites​

Step 1: Create a Project​

  1. Go to the Google Cloud Console.
  2. Click the project dropdown in the top bar and select New Project.
  3. Name it NalamDesk-Backup (or similar).
  4. Click Create.

Step 2: Enable Google Drive API​

  1. In the sidebar, go to APIs & Services > Library.
  2. Search for Google Drive API.
  3. Click on it and select Enable.
  1. Go to APIs & Services > OAuth consent screen.
  2. Select External (for personal @gmail.com accounts) and click Create.
    • Note: In "External" mode, the app will be in "Testing" status. You must add your own email as a Test User.
  3. App Information:
    • App name: NalamDesk Backup
    • User support email: Your email.
    • Developer contact information: Your email.
  4. Click Save and Continue until you reach Test Users.
  5. Test Users: Click + Add Users and enter your google email address. This authorizes you to use your own app.
  6. Click Save and Continue.

Step 4: Create Credentials​

  1. Go to APIs & Services > Credentials.
  2. Click + Create Credentials and select OAuth client ID.
  3. Application type: Select Desktop app.
  4. Name: Desktop Client.
  5. Click Create.

Step 5: Configure NalamDesk​

  1. You will see a dialog with your Client ID and Client Secret.
  2. Copy these strings.
  3. Open NalamDesk Settings > Data & Backup.
  4. Enter the Client ID and Client Secret in the respective fields.
  5. Click Connect Drive.

Security Note: Your Client Secret is stored locally in your encrypted nalamdesk.db database. Never share these credentials.