How to Uncompress Rar Files
There are a variety of file-compression formats that deal with the increasing need to share large files. If you do not know what a RAR file is, fear not--it's just another way to compress files into smaller packages. With the right software, it's easy to expand any RAR file and start using its contents.
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Instructions
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Find RAR expander software that works for your operating system. There are several free options for both Windows and Mac OS X. Windows users can try the Free RAR Extract Frog, while their Mac counterparts can choose RAR Expander. StuffIt Expander 2010 is also available in a free version for both platforms. Find links to download these programs in the "Resources" section of this article.
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Download and install the RAR expander software of your choice.
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Start your new RAR expander application. Locate the RAR files that you wish to expand. While each expander program works differently, most will offer a way to browse to your RAR file via the "File" menu, or simply allow you to drag your RAR file to the application's main window and drop it.
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Expand your RAR file. Some applications may start expanding the file automatically after you select it, while others will require you to choose an "Expand" or "Extract" option. You may be prompted to choose a location where you would like to have the program store the uncompressed files.
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Tips & Warnings
RAR files can be single files, but are frequently multivolume archives. If you have multiple RAR files that comprise a single archive, first ensure that they are all in the same folder. Choose to expand either the file that actually has the .rar extension or the first volume, which usually carries an extension of .r00, .r01 or .part1.rar.
