A file archive utility that compreses and decompresses multiple file formats
A file archive utility that compreses and decompresses multiple file formats
Pros
- Works with numerous archive formats
- Unpacks archives quickly
- May be more efficient than traditional OS-based tools
Cons
- Deflating files takes a while
- May not be necessary for users who only want to work with Zip files
WinZip is a file compression utility that's based around the famous Zip archive format. Any compressed folder made with WinZip can be disassembled by Windows' default archiving utility as well as all of the other programs designed to work with this format. It's extremely portable, which has helped to make WinZip a popular tool for those who want to store numerous documents or share files with their fellow computer users.
In fact, you could zip files up and sideload them to your phone or countless other devices because the file format is so flexible. That being said, you'd be able to do the same with the default tools that come with Windows. This might make WinZip look completely superfluous to some users who aren't as familiar with its advanced features.
If space is a premium, however, then WinZip can really shine by compressing files down much further than you'd otherwise be able to get them. Zipped up archives created with WinZip can be as much as 25 percent smaller than those compressed with Windows' native tools. Admittedly, you'll need to adjust some configuration options to get this point but it shouldn't be too difficult.
Users can select how tightly they want their files packed by simply moving a slider back and forth. Stronger compression levels are of course slower, but they can really shave bytes off big groups of files. Gamers in particular might appreciate this feature.
Binary executable files, which include ROMs for most 8 and 16-bit emulators, are going to compress down to a much smaller file size than most other types of files. Text documents and RTF objects will also shrink down quite a bit, which makes it easy to store huge groups of them in a single archive you can move to a backup drive.
Developers are going to fall in love with WinZip too. If you're writing your own games or managing a database utility, then you'll be able to work with EAR and WAR files. These are simply zip documents with a different extension. WinZip gives you the option of configuring which extension you'd prefer your output files to have, which should make it easy to produce the right kind of Java archives for the job. Those who want to protect their files can even set a password on them, which enables them to prevent unauthorized extraction.
Netizens who often themselves downloading unusual archives from the web will appreciate just how flexible WinZip can be. You're of course free to pack both the original ZIP archive format and as many ZIPX files as you want. If you're working online with other people who use WinZip, then you'll find ZIPX archives transmit more quickly over social media than original ZIP ones did.
On top of that, you'll be able to unpack BZ2, LHZ and LHA archives when you find them. If you've been downloading a number of things from the Internet, then you're likely to come across RAR and 7-zip archives as well. These formats are ubiquitous on the web, but they're notoriously hard for Windows users to extract. WinZip makes short work of them and even lets you zip them back up again in a more portable format.
Those who rely on context menus or prefer to hit Shift+F10 while they're typing can have WinZip integrate with these features, which will enable them to easily compress and unpack files as much as they prefer. It can even work with BinHex and uuencode files regardless of where you have these stored. While you don't see these formats too often, that's very important for academics and those working with research software.
It's also vital for gamers who are into running retro games in virtual machines. When you factor in that WinZip can write archives directly to CDs and DVDs, you might easily come to the conclusion that it's a well-rounded product that's certainly come around from its very humble beginnings. While the app might be showing its age a bit, it's never been more useful than it is today.
Pros
- Works with numerous archive formats
- Unpacks archives quickly
- May be more efficient than traditional OS-based tools
Cons
- Deflating files takes a while
- May not be necessary for users who only want to work with Zip files
Pros
- Fast, simple and stable compression and decompression functionality
- Protects data through a variety of security methods
- Easy sharing through multiple platforms
- Manages files and folders with ease
Cons
- Compressing large media files is time-consuming
- Doesn’t compress files into other formats outside of ZIP
WinZip simplifies compressing and decompressing files in a stable, user-friendly and lightweight application designed for 32 and 64-bit systems.
Considered the cornerstone of zipping and unzipping files, WinZip has etched its way into the lives of casual users and professional organizations. With only a few clicks of your mouse, you have the power to protect, manage and share your files without having to learn complex technical jargon.
Since its first version was released in 1991, WinZip has become the industry standard for zipping, encypting, sharing and managing digital files. Throughout the past few decades, its abilities have adapted to the growing digital landscape, but its commitment to stable, user-friendly and secure file management remains unchanged.
The Art of File Management - WinZip Features
The latest version of WinZip builds upon its existing features to create a more thorough, user-friendly experience. To streamline the zipping or unzipping process, you can now prompt the program to execute your desired operation from a variety of locations. This means you don’t have to actually open WinZip to access its functionality.
Along with streamlined operation, WinZip fine-tuned its program architecture for faster start-up performance. If you’ve ever accidentally opened multiple WinZip windows because of slow start-up time, this new feature is a welcomed change. Swift start-up time isn’t the only performance-enhancing feature. Utilizing advanced programming language, WinZip executes its actions faster than ever before.
The speed and lightweight functionality of WinZip is only part of its story. The latest release can now handle almost every type of file. This includes both popular and rare file types. Its flexibility in file management makes it ideal for both personal and professional network use.
WinZip is far more than a zipping program. Due to its advanced features, it’s become one of the most popular ways to share sensitive files throughout small and large organizations. Sharing files is easy, quick and user-friendly. Whether you’re sharing files through email, the cloud or messaging programs, WinZip allows you the freedom to safely and securely share sensitive information.
When you think about WinZip, you probably don’t consider it a file management system. However, with powerful management features, such as image format compression and robust management protocols, managing your files and folders is a breeze. Whether you’re converting files to PDF formats or managing your address book, WinZip can do far more than you imagine.
While zipping files is an excellent way to share massive amounts of data, WinZip also serves as a powerful security measure. When compressing files, personal data is automatically removed from the file. If you’re sharing sensitive information, the built-in encryption tool safeguards data in a single click. Additional security features include password protection, file conversion safeguards and watermark creation.
Pros
- Fast, simple and stable compression and decompression functionality
- Protects data through a variety of security methods
- Easy sharing through multiple platforms
- Manages files and folders with ease
Cons
- Compressing large media files is time-consuming
- Doesn’t compress files into other formats outside of ZIP
