ByWhat is a ZIP file?
ZIP files are compressed file formats that contain one or more files compiled together. This helps to reduce the file size and make data transfer easier.
Unzipping ZIP files in Windows 11 and 10 is extremely easy. Let us tell you in detail and step by step how to unzip ZIP files.
Ways to unzip ZIP files in Windows 11 and 10
1. Unzip the ZIP file with the Windows built-in tool
Windows 11 and 10 already have an in-built tool available to easily extract a ZIP file. For this, follow the steps given below:
Right-click on the ZIP file you want to unzip.
Select the “Extract All…” option.
A new window will open where you can choose the location to save the files.
Click the “Extract” button.
Your ZIP file will now be unzipped and the files will be saved in your chosen location.
2. Open the ZIP file via Windows Explorer
If you want to view the ZIP file without unzipping it, you can use Windows Explorer:
Double-click the ZIP file.
All the files it contains will appear.
If you want to open a file, double-click it.
If you want to extract a file separately, move it to another location by dragging and dropping it.
3. Unzip the ZIP file using PowerShell
If you prefer the command-line interface (CLI), you can also unzip ZIP files via Windows PowerShell.
Open the Windows Start Menu and type PowerShell.
Open it as Run as Administrator.
Enter the following command:
Expand-Archive -Path “C:\Users\YourUsername\Downloads\file.zip” -DestinationPath “C:\Users\YourUsername\Documents\”
Press Enter and your ZIP file will be unzipped.
4. Unzip ZIP file with WinRAR or 7-Zip software
Apart from the default Windows tools, you can also use third-party software. WinRAR and 7-Zip are among the most popular tools.
Unzip the ZIP file using WinRAR:
Download and install WinRAR.
Right-click on the ZIP file.
Choose the “Extract Here” or “Extract to [Folder Name]” option.
The files will be unzipped.
Unzip the ZIP file using 7-Zip:
Download and install 7-Zip.
Right-click on the ZIP file.
Hover over the 7-Zip option and select “Extract Here”.
The files will be unzipped immediately.
5. Unzip the ZIP file via CMD (Command Prompt)
If you prefer using Windows Command Prompt, follow the steps below:
Type CMD in the Windows Start Menu and open it as Run as Administrator.
Type the following command:
tar -xf “C:\Users\YourUsername\Downloads\file.zip” -C “C:\Users\YourUsername\Documents\”
Press Enter and the ZIP file will be unzipped.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the easiest way to unzip a ZIP file?
The easiest way is to right-click and select the “Extract All…” option in Windows Explorer.
2. Can a ZIP file be unzipped without software?
Yes, ZIP files can be unzipped using the in-built tools already present in Windows.
3. Why does the “Access Denied” error appear while unzipping a ZIP file?
This problem usually occurs due to a lack of administrator permission. Open it in Run as Administrator mode.
4. Why does data appear missing after unzipping a ZIP file?
Probably the files are being saved in Hidden Mode. Turn on the Hidden Files option in File Explorer.
5. Can I unzip a ZIP file on mobile?
Yes, you can open ZIP files using apps like RAR, ZArchiver, or WinZip.
Conclusion
Unzipping ZIP files in Windows 11 and 10 is easy and you can do it in different ways. You can easily open ZIP files using Windows Explorer, PowerShell, CMD, and third-party tools like WinRAR and 7-Zip. If you face any problem with a ZIP file, it is important to follow the right method to solve it.
