How to Open Zip Files in Linux

Files in zip format contain other files that have been compressed to save disk space and download time. Files that have been zipped need to be unpacked or "unzipped" in order to be usable. While zip files are usually associated with MS-DOS and Windows systems, current Linux distributions can open them right out of the box.

Instructions

1. Download the zip file or locate it on your computer, if you already have the file.

2. Double-click the file. This should open your Linux distribution's favorite file archive manager. If it does not, refer to the Tips section here.

3. Click the prominent button labeled "Extract" or "Unpack."

4. Choose a folder to unzip the files into, then click "Extract," "Unpack," or "OK"--the button in the lower right of the window, which will allow you to proceed.

5. Wait for a window to pop up, usually containing a progress bar to apprise you of the extraction process. The window will inform you when the process is complete and will often include a button to take you directly to the extraction folder. If not, simply click "Close" and browse the folder you chose, where your files will be waiting for you.

Tips & Warnings

• If double-clicking your zip file does not open an archive manager, that means your Linux distribution is quite out of date. You should update your operating system to the latest stable version.

• If you do not want to update your operating system, you should update KDE or Gnome, depending on which desktop environment you use. If updating your desktop environment is also not an option, the simple Linux shell command "Unzip" can open your files.