5 Ways to Fix File Unreadable Error in Google Drive [Solved]

You’re here because you’ve run into a pesky problem: how to fix file unreadable in Google Drive. It’s the virtual equivalent of finding a secret letter but written in invisible ink.

Frustrating, right? But don’t sweat it – we’ve got some solutions up our sleeve!

But before we dive into the nuts and bolts of sorting out your Google Drive files, let’s lighten the mood with a couple of tech-themed fun facts, shall we?

We’ll address questions like “What does it mean when it says file unreadable?” and “How do I make a Google Drive file readable?“.

Buckle up because we’re about to discover some straightforward, no-nonsense solutions.

Fun Fact #1: Did you know the first ever Google server was built with LEGO bricks? Yep, those bricks you used to create architectural wonders as a kid!

How to fix the “File Unreadable” error message in Google Drive

Here are the five (5) methods you can use to rectify the problem;

Method 1: Check File Permissions

Google Drive is like a digital playground where your files can swing, slide, and see-saw without the fear of getting hurt.

But just like every playground, there are rules to follow. In the world of Google Drive, these rules are called permissions, and if they’re not set up right, they could be the culprit behind your “file unreadable” dilemma.

When you stumble upon a file that says it’s unreadable, the first thing you should do is check the permissions. Here’s how:

Right-click on the file in question, and select “Share” from the dropdown menu.
Look at the people listed under “Share with people and groups”.
Make sure everyone who needs access to the file is there. If they’re not, invite them in!

Remember, it’s important to respect privacy while dealing with file permissions. Only give access to people who need it.

Fun Fact #2: The name 'Google' is actually a play on the mathematical term 'googol', which means 1 followed by a hundred zeros. Talk about big aspirations!

Method 2: Try a Different Browser or Device

So you’ve checked permissions, and that stubborn file remains unreadable. No worries! We’re just getting started.

Picture this – your computer is like a chef’s kitchen, and your browser is the trusty knife. But sometimes, even the best knives can get a little dull.

Not always your ingredients (or files, in this case) are the problem. Occasionally, you’ve just got to sharpen your tools.

The next step is to try accessing Google Drive from a different browser or device. Here’s why this might work:

Browsers can occasionally have quirks that cause issues with specific websites or services.
It could be a device-specific problem. Trying a different device helps you rule this out.

In the tech world, this is the equivalent of the age-old advice of “turning it off and then on again.” It’s simple, but you’d be surprised how often it works.

And hey, while you’re exploring the nooks and crannies of Google Drive, you may come across some files that refuse to go away when you want them to.

Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with our guide on how to delete stubborn files from Google Drive. It’s a lifesaver!

Method 3: Make a Copy of the Unreadable File

So, we’ve checked permissions and tried a different browser, and that pesky file is still unreadable. Well, fear not, because we’re not out of options yet.

Sometimes, the best solution is the simplest one: make a copy. It’s like taking a photocopy of a document when the original is getting a little too worn out to read.

Here’s how to make a copy of a file in Google Drive:

Right-click on the file causing grief, and select “Make a copy” from the dropdown menu.
The copy will appear in your Drive. Try opening it – with some luck, your unreadable file problem will be a thing of the past!

Sometimes, making a copy can help you dodge the ‘unreadable file’ problem. It’s one of those tech miracles we can’t quite explain, but we’re grateful.

If you’re wondering about the privacy aspects of the files you upload to Google Drive, you might find our article on whether Google Drive removes EXIF data pretty enlightening.

Method 4: Add Additional Permissions for Another User

Imagine you’re trying to open a tricky jar of pickles. Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, that lid just won’t budge. What do you do? You pass it to a friend for a fresh pair of hands. That’s the concept behind our next method.

If you’re still finding a file unreadable in Google Drive, it could be worth getting someone else involved – virtually. Here’s how:

Right-click the file and select “Share.”
Enter the email address of someone you trust – a friend or colleague.
In the dropdown menu next to their email, select “Editor.” This gives them full access to the file.
Ask them to open the file and see if they have the same problem. If they don’t, they can make changes or even download and re-upload the file for you.

Sharing is caring, after all! Just ensure the file contains no sensitive information before you share it.

Method 5: Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies

We’re pulling out the big guns now. This is the tech equivalent of giving your house a good spring cleaning. We’re talking about clearing your browser cache and cookies.

Here’s the deal – your browser is like a busy bee, collecting bits of data (or ‘cookies’) as it flits from website to website.

Sometimes, though, these crumbs of data can clog up the system, leading to issues like, you guessed it, unreadable files on Google Drive.

Here’s how to give your browser a good scrub:

Every browser is a bit different, but generally, you’ll find the option to clear your cache in the “Settings” or “History” menu.
Look for a button that says “Clear browsing data” or “Clear cache and cookies.”
Click that button, restart your browser, and return to Google Drive. With a bit of luck, your file will be readable once more!

This step can sometimes feel drastic, like throwing out the old to make room for the new. Sometimes that’s just what you need to solve a stubborn problem.

Conclusion

We’ve covered quite a bit of ground, haven’t we? From checking file permissions to clearing your cache, we’ve explored every nook and cranny of how to fix file unreadable in Google Drive.

Remember, technology isn’t always a smooth ride. It’s a bit like a thrilling, fast-paced roller coaster, and sometimes it throws a loop or two your way.

But that’s why we’re here, guiding you through every twist and turn.

We hope that by following these methods, you can crack the code and make your Google Drive file readable. But if you’re still stuck, don’t fret. Reach out to Google Drive Support – they’re there to help.