How to zip or unzip files on Windows 11
Zip is still a thing to compress files to save space or share content with others over the internet, and here’s how to use the feature on Windows 11.
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On Windows 11 and other platforms, “zip” is perhaps one of the most common containers to compress files. Usually, you would use zip support to archive non-essential files, compress files to save space on the hard drive or send pictures and documents over the internet through an email service. This file format is also typically the container of choice to share files (such as applications and documents) on the web or through File Transfer Protocol (FTP) servers.
Although you can always rely on third-party tools,Windows 11ships with native support for zip and unzip files quickly. Also, starting withversion 24H2, File Explorer includes a new wizard for creating zip files using different types of compression. Furthermore, since the operating system now supports the “libarchive” open-source project, in addition to “zip,” you can also use the wizard to create RAR and 7z files with different compression levels and methods.
In thishow-to guide, I’ll explain how to use your computer’s native compression support to zip and unzip files.
How to zip files on Windows 11
Although the ability to zip and unzip is available on virtually every release of WIndows 11, depending on the version, the steps to compress a group of files will be slightly different.
Zip on version 24H2 and later
To create a Zip file on Windows 11 version 24H2 and later releases, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the system will create the Zip file using the compression level you specified.
Zip on version 23H2 and earlier
To zip files on all versions of Windows 11 (including 24H2, 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2), use these steps:
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Once you complete the steps, you will end up in the “.zip” file, which includes all the compressed files. You can keep this on your computer or share it with others.
Alternatively, you can select the files and folders, right-click the selection, and choose the"Compress to ZIP file"option. You can also drag and drop the items into the zip file to compress them.
Share zipped folder
After compressing the files, you can share the contents with nearby devices or by email, and here’s how:
Once you complete the steps, the recipient will be able to use the steps below to extract the files.
How to unzip files on Windows 11
Windows 11 includes native support for zipping, which means you can double-click the zipped folder to access its content. However, you will need to extract the files if you want to modify their contents or if it’s an application you wish to install.
The instructions for unzipping files are identical on every version of the operating system, which means that you can use them on versions 24H2, 23H2, and older releases.
You can use two ways to unzip files. You can extract all the contents or unzip only the files you need.
Extract all wizard
To extract all the files from the .“zip” file, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the folder with all the extracted files should open automatically on the screen.
Extract files individually
To unzip individual files on Windows 11, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, you may need to repeat the steps to extract other files.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
