---
id: cloud-accounts.do-i-need-to-install-anything-to-add-cloud-accounts
url: https://storagestudio.us/faq/cloud-accounts/do-i-need-to-install-anything-to-add-cloud-accounts
category: "Cloud accounts"
subcategory: "Adding an account"
question: "Do I need to install a provider's app to add its account in Storage Studio?"
alt_questions:
  - "Do I need Google Drive for desktop to use Google Drive in Storage Studio?"
  - "Does Storage Studio need the Dropbox app installed?"
  - "Extra software needed for cloud accounts?"
  - "Can I use Google Drive without installing its app on my Mac?"
  - "Cloud accounts without the provider's sync app"
short_answer: "No. Storage Studio connects to Google Drive, Dropbox, bucket storage, FTP and SFTP on its own — just sign in or enter the details in Add Account. A provider's own Mac app can stay installed alongside it."
tags: ["setup", "requirements", "cloud accounts"]
related: ["https://storagestudio.us/faq/cloud-accounts/how-do-i-add-a-cloud-account", "https://storagestudio.us/faq/cloud-accounts/can-i-use-google-drive-for-desktop-and-storage-studio-together"]
applies_to: "all"
last_reviewed: 2026-10-01
---

# Do I need to install a provider's app to add its account in Storage Studio?

No. Storage Studio connects to Google Drive, Dropbox, bucket storage, FTP and SFTP by itself — you don't need the provider's own Mac app. You just sign in or enter the server details in **Cloud Accounts → Add Account**.

If you already use a provider's own app (for example Google Drive for desktop), that's fine; the two don't interfere. The provider's app keeps its own synced folder, while Storage Studio talks to the account directly for transfers, backups and its own Finder location.