How to Zip a File in Mac OS X
Zipping files in Mac OS X, also called archiving or compressing, is a useful tool for backing up data, saving space on your hard drive or sending files in an email. Mac OS X comes pre-installed with a compression application called Archive Utility. Archive Utility is an Apple Core Service. It is hidden from searches in your Finder window, but automatically launches when you zip files in Mac OS X.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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1
Open Finder on your Mac and locate the file that you want to zip.
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2
Highlight your file's icon, or hold down the Command key while highlighting to select multiple files.
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3
Right-click your highlighted file(s) and select "Compress" to launch Archive Utility. This will automatically zip your files. If you zip a single file, your new archive will retain the original file name with a ".zip" file extension. If you zip multiple files, it will be called "Archive.zip."
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4
Change your ZIP name if Archive is insufficient. Retain the ".zip" file extension.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Archive Utility is located in your Mac OS X's "/System/Library/CoreServices" folder. Open Archive Utility, click the "Archive Utility" icon and select "Preferences" to change where zipped and unzipped files are saved.
