Fix Google Drive 'Upload Failed' & 'Waiting for Network'

Updated: 11/29/2025

You drag a file into Google Drive, the progress bar starts, and then it freezes. You see the gray text: 'Upload failure' or 'Waiting for network', even though your internet is working perfectly. This is a productivity killer. The issue is rarely your internet speed; it is almost always a conflict with your browser's ability to handle large encrypted data packets.

Table of Contents

Method 1: The Incognito Mode Test

Browser extensions (especially AdBlockers and Privacy tools) often treat file uploads as 'data tracking' and block them.

Step 1: Go Private

Press Ctrl + Shift + N to open an Incognito window.

Step 2: Log in and Upload

Log into Drive and try the upload again. If it works here, one of your main browser extensions is the culprit. Disable them one by one to find the blocker.

Method 2: Clear Cached Images and Files

If your browser cache is full, it cannot allocate space to buffer the file before sending it to the cloud.

Chrome > Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data

Ensure 'Cached images and files' is checked. You do not need to clear your history or passwords.

Method 3: Split the Upload

Google Drive struggles with massive single files (e.g., a 10GB video) over standard HTTP connections.

Tip: Use a tool like 7-Zip or WinRAR to split the large file into smaller 2GB chunks (Part 1, Part 2, etc.). Uploading smaller parts is much more stable and resumable.