How to Find the Best Zip Program
There are many features to look for in zip file utilities. These applications create or extract files from zip files, also known as archived files. You want to get one that works on your operating system and opens the types of files you are likely to encounter. You also want one that fits within your budget, or you might be looking for some special features.
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Instructions
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Choose a commercial zip utility. If you have a PC and are willing to pay for a zip software, you have several to choose from. WinZip, ALZip and Stuffit are all highly rated. Stuffit is the most expensive, but it also compresses and extracts many file formats when compared to WinZip. ALZip compresses and extracts many formats besides zip, but doesn't compress RAR files and is lacking some useful features such as wizard mode plus telephone and email support.
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Look for a free PC zipping utility to save money. Free programs are often a good choice, especially if you only occasionally need to compress or extract zip files. Quick Zip and 7-zip are examples of good freeware zip utilities. Both will create and extract zip files, but they will only extract a RAR file, they can't create one. Neither has a wizard mode, and only Quick Zip will create a self-extracting file.
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Get extra compatibility for the PC or the Mac. Look for programs that will create and extract other formats besides Zip, such as RAR or SIT, and that can open files created on a Mac or a PC. WinRAR and Stuffit are good examples of these, for users who have both types of computers or who frequently have to open files from those who use both.
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Look for special features. If you are a power user, you might look for features such as batch extraction or compression, password protection or integration with an anti-virus software. Batch conversion lets you create or extract multiple files at once. Password protection allows you to create files that can't be opened unless the person trying to open them knows the password, and integration with your anti-virus software protects you from a virus that might be contained in a zip file you are trying to open.
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Tips & Warnings
Most zip utilities are either shareware or freeware. Shareware means you have to pay for it, but you get to try it first. This is a good way to make sure you are getting a product that does what you want it to do and is easy to use.
Some people only need to extract zip files, which can easily be done in Windows if you only do it occasionally. The reason to pay for an extra piece of software is if you have to create zip files or if you find you have a lot of them to extract.
