What is .zip?
.zip is the most widely used archive format for compressing and bundling files into a single container. It supports lossless compression, optional encryption, and is natively supported on all major operating systems.
This quick guide explains when to use .zip files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.
When to use .zip files
- You want to bundle multiple files or folders into a single downloadable package.
- You need to reduce file size for sharing via email, cloud storage, or the web.
- You are distributing software, assets, or project files in a portable format.
- You want a format that opens without extra software on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
How to open .zip files
ZIP files open natively on Windows, macOS, and most Linux desktop environments. You can double-click to browse and extract files. Many tools (WinRAR, 7-Zip, The Unarchiver) offer advanced options. You can also upload .zip files to FileXhost to share them with a clean download page or use built-in viewers (where available) to inspect contents.
Algorithm details
ZIP is a container format that supports multiple compression methods, most commonly DEFLATE. Each file inside the archive is compressed separately and stored with a header containing metadata (name, size, timestamps, CRC). ZIP supports solid and non-solid compression, optional password protection, and can store uncompressed files as well.
Browser & platform support
- Desktop: Browsers typically download ZIP files instead of opening them directly. Some extensions or tools can preview contents, but extraction requires a file manager or dedicated app.
- Mobile: ZIP files can be opened by built-in file apps on iOS and Android or via third-party utilities.
- OS: Native support is built into Windows Explorer, macOS Finder, and many Linux file managers.
Format comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Most widely supported archive format across platforms and tools. |
| Compression | Good general-purpose compression; 7z and RAR may achieve slightly better ratios for some data. |
| Features | Supports multiple files, directories, metadata, and optional encryption. |
| Use Case | Ideal default choice for sharing and distributing files. |
How to create zip files
- File Explorers: Right-click > 'Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder' (Windows) or 'Compress' (macOS).
- CLI: zip/unzip utilities on Linux/macOS, PowerShell Compress-Archive on Windows.
- Archiving Tools: 7-Zip, WinRAR, WinZip, The Unarchiver.
- Build/CI: Many build systems output artifacts as ZIP archives.
How to convert zip files
- FileXhost: Upload existing ZIP files to share them as a single download link.
- Desktop: Use 7-Zip, WinRAR, or built-in tools to convert between ZIP, RAR, 7z, and TAR-based archives.
- CLI: Use zip/unzip or 7z commands to repack archives.
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
- Universal support across operating systems and tools
- Easy to create and extract without extra software
- Good balance of compression ratio and speed
- Supports password protection and encryption (when configured)
Disadvantages
- Compression ratio not always as high as 7z or RAR
- Older encryption methods (ZipCrypto) are weak; AES-256 ZIP is better but not universally supported
- Large archives can become corrupted; recovery depends on tools and redundancy
Tools & software
Archivers
7-Zip, WinRAR, WinZip, PeaZip, The Unarchiver
System Tools
Windows Explorer, macOS Finder, Linux file managers (Nautilus, Dolphin, Thunar)
CLI
zip, unzip, 7z, PowerShell Compress-Archive/Expand-Archive
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I open a ZIP file?
The ZIP file may be corrupted or partially downloaded, or it might be encrypted with a password. Try re-downloading, checking with another tool (like 7-Zip or WinRAR), or confirming you have the correct password.
Is ZIP compression lossless?
Yes. ZIP uses lossless compression, meaning files are restored exactly as they were before compression. It is safe for documents, code, and other data that cannot tolerate quality loss.
ZIP vs RAR vs 7z—what should I use?
ZIP is best for compatibility and ease of use. RAR and 7z can offer better compression and advanced features but require specific tools. For general sharing, ZIP is usually the safest choice.
Can I password-protect a ZIP file?
Yes. Many archiving tools let you add a password. Prefer AES-256 encryption when available and be aware that not all systems support opening encrypted ZIPs without additional software.
Technical specs
- File type
- Archive
- Extension
- .zip
- MIME type
- application/zip
- Compression
- Lossless
- Max file size on FileXhost
- Up to 25 MB per file on the free plan and up to 1 GB on Pro FileXhost accounts.
Share .zip files instantly
Upload your .zip file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.
Upload .zip file