What is zip files

For example, let's say you want to email a folder of Word documents to someone. You could attach each file individually, but it would take a long time—especially if there are a lot of documents. A better solution would be to put all of the files into a zip file, and then attach the zip file to your email. Another advantage of zip files is that they are compressed , which means the total file size is smaller.

If you're emailing a zip file to someone or posting it to the Web, it takes less time to upload —and your recipients will also be able to download it more quickly. Zipping your files can help to reduce the amount of space they use on your computer's hard drive. You can find more information on how to zip files here. First, zipped files save storage space and increase the efficiency of your computer.

You're able to send emails faster with smaller files. Furthermore, the ZIP file format will encrypt your data. This maintains your privacy when sending files over the internet. Windows and Mac OS have a different method, but they both begin with a right click. And for recipients, it is simple to unzip files. All it takes is a download and a click regardless of their computer's operating system. However, there are a range of potential issues associated with ZIP files.

They include file size limits, file type limits, corruption, and mobility issues. One of many disadvantages associated with ZIP archive files is compression limits. Some files cannot be compressed much more than they already are.

So, if you frequently work with video and image files, the ZIP format won't help you save very much storage space. You also need to think about the security aspect of zipped files.

Completed zipped files are encrypted, but you don't know what happens to your file if you upload a third-party app. In some cases, corrupted data can affect the entire ZIP folder. ZIP files are also difficult to use if you are on the go. If you're using a phone or tablet, you would need to use a file saved on your phone and a third-party app. In this case, it's an. Do not double-click this file to open it when inside a zipped folder.

That's like trying to read a book before taking it off the shelf. This step is the step that confuses a lot of people. This appears to be a normal folder on your computer, but in fact, you are within a single zipped file. If you want to select all files and folders even if there is only one in the. In the above screenshot, a blue background shows that a file is selected. The background for selected files could be a different color on your computer. Now, copy the file s by pressing Ctrl-C on your keyboard.

Then, click the "back" button to return to the previous folder:. Lastly, paste the file s into this folder by pressing Ctrl-V on your keyboard. This copies the files as unzipped files into the folder you are currently viewing: This may take a few minutes or longer for large files.

Resolved my issue. Clear instructions. Easy to follow. No jargon. Pictures helped. Didn't match my screen. Incorrect instructions. Too technical. Not enough information.