Working with .zip Files

Table of Contents

Intro - What is a .zip file?

Zip archives are a popular way to compress multiple files into a single file for easy sharing and storage. They are commonly used for transferring files over the internet or archiving large files. In this article, we will explain what a zip archive is, how to open them in Windows Explorer, how to create them in Windows Explorer, and how to extract password-protected archives in Windows Explorer.

The compression process reduces the size of the files, making it easier to share or transfer them. The files in a zip archive are compressed using a compression algorithm, which reduces their size without losing any data.

How to open .zip files in Windows

Windows Explorer is the file management tool in Windows. You can open a zip archive in Windows Explorer by following these steps:

1. Locate the zip archive on your computer.
2. Right-click on the zip archive and select "Extract All" from the context menu.
3. In the "Extract Compressed (Zipped) Folders" dialog box, specify the location where you want to extract the files, and then click "Extract."
4. The files in the zip archive will be extracted to the specified location.

How to create .zip files in Windows

You can create a zip archive in Windows Explorer by following these steps:

1. Select the files or folders you want to compress.
2. Right-click on the selected files or folders and select "Send to" > "Compressed (zipped) folder."
3. A new zip archive will be created in the same location as the original files or folders.
4. You can then rename the zip archive if you wish.

Password-protected .zip files

If a zip archive is password-protected, you will need to enter the password to extract the files. To extract password-protected archives in Windows Explorer, follow these steps:

1. Locate the password-protected zip archive on your computer.
2. Double-click on the zip archive to open it in Windows Explorer.
3. In the "Compressed (zipped) Folders" dialog box, click "Extract all files."
4. In the "Extract Compressed (Zipped) Folders" dialog box, select the location where you want to extract the files, and then click "Extract."

You cannot -create- a password-protected .zip file natively through windows. Please see this article for alternatives:

How to Use 7-Zip to Encrypt Files and/or Folders

Also, be aware not all .zip are compatible with Windows alone. If you cannot open a .zip file, please contact the I.T. Department for assistance.

How to Use 7-Zip to Encrypt Files and/or Folders

What if I need additional assistance?

SJRstate IT is here to help! Reach out to us by:

• Calling the Helpdesk at (386)312-4142
• E-mailing ITDepartment@SJRState.edu
• Using the Help Portal at help.sjrstate.edu , and filing a service request ticket for the appropriate service. If you're not sure which service to use, you can submit a general request with the button below and we'll categorize it for you!

   

Submit General I.T. Helpdesk Ticket (Staff And Faculty)