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How to Zip and Unzip Files in Windows

Compress files into a ZIP archive or extract files from one without extra software.

Quick Answer

Right-click files → Compress to ZIP file. To unzip, right-click a ZIP file → Extract All.

Step by Step

  1. To create a ZIP, select the files or folder.
  2. Right-click the selection.
  3. Choose Compress to ZIP file.
  4. To extract a ZIP, right-click the .zip file.
  5. Choose Extract All and select the destination.

If That Doesn't Work

  • If you open a ZIP without extracting it, some programs may not work correctly with the files inside.
  • Use Extract All before editing or running files from an archive.

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