Zipping and unzipping files in Windows is a relatively easy process that can help you save storage space on your computer. Zipped files are compressed versions of the original files, reducing their size and making them easier to send or store. You can zip and unzip files in Windows using built-in functions or free third-party programs.
Using the Built-In ZIP Tool
Windows has its own built-in file compression tool that you can use to zip and unzip files. To zip a file, right-click on the file or folder and select “Send to” > “Compressed (zipped) folder.” This will create a new zipped folder with the same name as the file or folder you zipped.
To unzip a file, double-click on the zipped folder. This will open the contents of the zipped folder. To extract the files from the zipped folder, drag and drop them to the desired location. Alternatively, you can select all the files in the zipped folder by pressing Ctrl+A and then click on “Extract All” located at the top of the window. On the Extract Compressed (Zipped) Folders window, select the desired folder where you want to extract the files and click on “Extract.”
Using 7-Zip
7-Zip is a free and open-source file archiving program that you can use to zip and unzip files. First, download the latest version of 7-Zip from the 7-Zip website. Once installed, you can access the 7-Zip options from the menu located at the top of the window. To zip a file, select the file or folder you want to zip, then click on 7-Zip > “Add to Archive.” On the Archive name and parameters window, enter the desired file name for your zipped file and select “Zip” from the Archive format dropdown menu. Additionally, you can specify other file compression settings under the Compression tab. Once you’re done, click on “OK” to create your zipped file.
To unzip a file with 7-Zip, right-click on the zipped file and select “7-Zip > Extract Here.” This will extract the files to the same folder where the zipped file is located. Alternatively, you can select “7-Zip > “Extract Files” to specify the destination folder.
Using WinRAR
WinRAR is an archive and file compression utility for Windows. To zip a file, select the desired file or folder, and then click on “Add to archive…” from the WinRAR menu. On the “Archive name and parameters” window, enter the desired file name for your zipped file, then select “ZIP” from the Archive format dropdown menu. Additionally, you can specify other file compression settings under the Compression tab. Once you’re done, click on “OK” to create your zipped file.
To unzip a file with WinRAR, select the zipped file and click on “Extract To…” from the WinRAR menu. On the Extract dialog window, select the destination folder and click on “OK.” This will extract the files to the specified location.
Conclusion
Zipping and unzipping files in Windows is a simple process that can help you save storage space and easily send large files. Windows has its own built-in file compression tool that you can use to zip and unzip files. Additionally, there are several free third-party programs available such as 7-Zip and WinRAR that can also be used to zip and unzip files.