Windows users had to rely upon third-party applications such as WinZip or WinRAR. Now that the support is available, you can Zip or Unzip Files in Windows 11. So, in the following guide, we will walk you through the steps to zip and unzip files quickly in Windows 11.
What is a ZIP File?
What is a ZIP File?
ZIP file is a file format that is used to compress. A single file can be compressed using the ZIP format to reduce the file size. It is also possible to compress two or more files together in a particular location, reducing the overall size of the files. The advantage of using the ZIP format is the reduced disk space, making it easier to transport the files via external drives or the internet. The receiver of the ZIP file can unzip or extract the ZIP file after the transportation to access the original documents. It is a convenient method and is used globally in the digital workspace. The compression method of ZIP files helps to send data faster, which is the reason ZIP files are so popular.
How does the ZIP File work?
The working of the ZIP files is straightforward. The ZIP files remove excess data and encode the information into fewer bits. This process is called “Lossless Data Compression.” This process ensures you don’t lose any data during the compression and decompression process.
How to Zip Files in Windows 11
How to Zip Files in Windows 11
Now that you understand the ZIP file and how it works, it is time to know the steps for Zip Files in Windows 11. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.
Create ZIP Files in Windows 11
Windows 11 is the most advanced version of the Microsoft Windows operating system. Unlike the older Windows operating systems, Windows 11 has several new integrated features, including file compression. So, it is not required to install any third-party applications to create ZIP files on Windows 11. File Explorer will do the trick.
How to Share a ZIP Folder
After the files are compressed, and the ZIP folder is successfully created, you can share it with nearby devices or through email.
How to Unzip Files in Windows 11
How to Unzip Files in Windows 11
Suppose you have received a Zip file on your Windows 11 computer and now want to unzip it. There are as many as four ways to unzip a file in Windows 11. We have listed all four of them below.
With File Explorer
You created a ZIP file using File Explorer in the previous method, and you can also unzip it using the same on Windows 11. There’s no need to rely entirely upon third-party compression tools such as WinZip or WinRAR. Here are the steps.
With Command Prompt
You can also use the Command Prompt to extract ZIP files in Windows 11. In 2018, it was enhanced with the powerful TAR command line that enables it to extract or unzip files, similar to Linux systems. Here are the steps to do it.
With PowerShell
Besides the Command prompt, Windows 11 can also use PowerShell to extract ZIP files. Here are the steps you need to follow.
With 7-Zip
Besides these built-in methods, you can also employ 7-Zip to unzip files in Windows 11. 7-Zip is a convenient, free tool that doesn’t ruin the experience with numerous pop-ups.
Does Windows 11 Have a Dedicated ZIP Program?
Yes, it does. Initially, Windows didn’t have built-in ZIP support. So, users had to rely on third-party programs like WinRAR or 7-Zip. But now, Microsoft has added ZIP support in File Explorer.
Is ZIP on Windows 11 Different from 7-Zip or RAR?
Essentially, no. Both are the same formats designed to compress files. But 7z file or 7-ZIP is a better archiving format that provides a higher level of compression, making the file size smaller than regular ZIP formats. But it also means file extraction takes longer, and users have to download and install a third-party program which is not convenient at all.
Zip or Unzip Files in Windows 11 Conveniently
Zip or Unzip Files in Windows 11 Conveniently
The older Windows version didn’t come with built-in Zip support, and users had to rely on the third-party tool, but those days are long gone. Windows 11 now has ZIP support. You can zip or unzip files conveniently without involving any third-party tools. The article explains the steps to Zip or Unzip files in Windows 11. Check them out, and you will be good to go.
