How to create and set up a Dropbox account

Dropbox is a single, organized place for all your files. Learn how to get Dropbox setup by installing apps and adding files to your account. With features like folder suggestions and calendar integration, Dropbox helps you stay focused on your most important work. 

Not using Dropbox yet? See how Dropbox makes organizing files easy.

How to sign up for Dropbox

To sign up for a Dropbox account:

1. Create an account on dropbox.com.
2. Type in your email (your email address will be the username for your Dropbox account).
3. Type your first name, last name, and a unique password.
4. Click the box to agree to the Dropbox terms.
5. Choose a paid plan, or click Continue with 2 GB Dropbox Basic Plan.
6. Choose your user preferences.

If you already installed the Dropbox mobile app or desktop app, you can also create an account by launching the app and clicking Sign up.

Once you’ve created your Dropbox account, you can log in or out with your email and password, Google, or Apple.

How to add files to your Dropbox account

Once you create an account, you can add files to your Dropbox account. Any files you add to your Dropbox account sync across all your devices where you installed Dropbox.

On dropbox.com

To add files from dropbox.com:

1. Log in to dropbox.com.
2. Click Upload.
3. Click Files or Folder.
   • If you chose Files, select as many files as you like and click Open.
   • If you chose Folder, select a folder and click Upload.

On the desktop app

To add files from your computer:

1. Open your file explorer, Finder, or Linux file manager, depending on which operating system you’re using.
2. Navigate to the Dropbox folder.
3. Copy and paste or drag and drop files into the Dropbox folder.

When you add files to your Dropbox folder, they'll upload to Dropbox. Once your files have been successfully uploaded to Dropbox, your syncing status should state Up to date.

On the mobile app

To add files from your phone or tablet:

1. Open the Dropbox app on your phone or tablet.
2. Tap the + (plus) icon.
3. Tap Create or upload file.
4. Tap Upload File.