Google has become so deeply embedded in our digital lives that the idea of leaving feels overwhelming. Gmail, Google Drive, Google Calendar, Chrome, Android, YouTube—where do you even start?
The good news: you don’t have to do it all at once. This guide will walk you through replacing each Google service, one step at a time.
Why DeGoogle?
Before diving into the how, let’s revisit the why:
- Privacy: Google’s business model is built on collecting and monetizing your personal data
- Security: Centralizing everything in one account creates a single point of failure
- Control: You should own your data, not rent access to it
- Competition: Supporting alternatives creates a healthier tech ecosystem
Phase 1: Email (The Most Important Step)
Email is the foundation of your digital identity. It’s how you reset passwords, receive important documents, and communicate privately. Start here.
Replace Gmail with Proton Mail
Proton Mail offers:
- End-to-end encryption by default
- Zero-access architecture
- Swiss privacy laws
- Easy import from Gmail
Action Steps:
- Create a Proton Mail account
- Import your Gmail using Easy Switch
- Set up forwarding from Gmail
- Update critical accounts with your new email
- After 3-6 months, disable Gmail forwarding
Phase 2: Cloud Storage
Your files deserve better than Google Drive’s lack of encryption.
Replace Google Drive with Proton Drive
Key Benefits:
- Client-side encryption (files encrypted before upload)
- Zero-knowledge storage
- Secure file sharing
- Photo backup on mobile
Action Steps:
- Download Proton Drive apps
- Upload your most important files first
- Set up automatic photo backup
- Gradually migrate Google Drive contents
Phase 3: VPN
Protect your browsing from ISPs, hackers, and surveillance.
Add Proton VPN
Why You Need a VPN:
- Encrypt your internet connection
- Hide your IP address
- Access content while traveling
- Protect on public WiFi
Action Steps:
- Install Proton VPN on all devices
- Enable automatic connection
- Use Secure Core for sensitive activities
Phase 4: Calendar
Your schedule reveals intimate details about your life.
Replace Google Calendar with Proton Calendar
Privacy Benefits:
- Encrypted event details
- No data mining of your schedule
- Private event invitations
Action Steps:
- Export Google Calendar as ICS
- Import into Proton Calendar
- Set up Proton Calendar on all devices
- Disable Google Calendar sync
Phase 5: Passwords
Chrome’s built-in password manager isn’t secure enough.
Replace Chrome Passwords with Proton Pass
Security Features:
- End-to-end encrypted vault
- Built-in 2FA authenticator
- Secure password sharing
- Dark web monitoring
Action Steps:
- Export Chrome passwords
- Import into Proton Pass
- Install browser extension
- Disable Chrome password saving
Phase 6: Search (Beyond Proton)
While Proton doesn’t offer search, there are excellent alternatives:
- DuckDuckGo: No tracking, good results
- Startpage: Google results without tracking
- Brave Search: Independent index, no tracking
Phase 7: Browser
Chrome sends enormous amounts of data to Google.
Alternatives:
- Firefox: Open source, privacy-focused
- Brave: Built-in ad blocking and privacy
- Tor Browser: Maximum anonymity
The Gradual Approach
Don’t try to do everything at once. Here’s a realistic timeline:
Week 1-2: Set up Proton Mail, start forwarding Week 3-4: Install Proton VPN, use daily Month 2: Migrate to Proton Drive Month 3: Switch to Proton Calendar Month 4: Move to Proton Pass Month 5-6: Replace browser and search
What You’ll Gain
After completing your DeGoogle journey:
- Privacy: Your data stays your data
- Security: No single point of failure
- Peace of Mind: No more wondering who’s reading your emails
- Control: You own your digital life
The path to privacy isn’t always convenient, but it’s always worth it.
Start Your DeGoogle Journey
Get all Proton services in one privacy suite with Proton Unlimited.
Ready to make the switch?
Start your privacy journey today with Proton's secure services.