What is a ZIP file?

A ZIP file is a compressed archive file in which you can combine multiple files and folders. The ZIP format is the most widely used method for file compression.

Creating a ZIP file on Windows

Method 1: Via the right-click menu

  1. Select the files or folders
  2. Right-click
  3. Choose Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder
  4. Give the ZIP file a name

Method 2: With 7-Zip

  1. Download and install 7-Zip
  2. Select the files
  3. Right-click > 7-Zip > Add to archive
  4. Choose the ZIP format and optionally set a password
  5. Click OK

Creating a ZIP file on Mac

  1. Select the files in Finder
  2. Right-click (or Control-click)
  3. Choose Compress
  4. The ZIP file appears in the same folder

Creating a ZIP file on iPhone

  1. Open the Files app
  2. Tap the three dots > Select
  3. Select the files
  4. Tap the three dots at the bottom right
  5. Choose Compress

Creating a ZIP file on Android

  1. Open the Files app
  2. Select the files
  3. Tap More or the three dots
  4. Choose Compress or Zip

Adding password protection

Windows with 7-Zip

  1. Right-click > 7-Zip > Add to archive
  2. Select zip as the format
  3. Enter a password under Encryption
  4. Choose AES-256 as the encryption method
  5. Click OK

Mac with Terminal

zip -er protected.zip foldername/

Tips for optimal compression

Compresses well: Text files, spreadsheets, uncompressed images

Barely compresses: JPEG, MP3, MP4, other ZIP/RAR archives

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum size of a ZIP file?

The traditional ZIP format supports up to 4 GB. ZIP64 supports much larger files.

Can I open a ZIP file without software?

Yes, Windows, macOS, iOS and Android have built-in support.

How do I repair a damaged ZIP file?

Tools such as WinRAR, 7-Zip or DiskInternals ZIP Repair can try to recover the contents.

Is a ZIP file safe to download?

ZIP files themselves are not dangerous, but always scan them with antivirus software.