How to Read Zip & RAR Files

Both Zip and RAR files are basically files that are compressed in order to make their storage and transfer from one computer to another easier. You need to decompress or unzip them, before they can be read. Luckily there are free programs online to download for the sole purpose of decompressing Zip and RAR files called "extractors." Examples of these extractors include WinRAR, 7Zip, and SuperNZB.

Things You'll Need

• Zip/RAR extractor

Instructions

1. Go online and download one of the free Zip/RAR file extractors (see References). Once the extractor has been downloaded, install the software onto your computer.

2. Double click on the folder that contains the RAR, or Zip, file that you wish to read. Double-click on the file itself and the extractor software will open up to decompress the file.

3. Browse your computer or create a new folder in which to store the Zip/RAR file once it's been extracted. The extractor will extract the file from its current location, decompress it and then store it in the new location you selected. Click "Extract" to continue.

4. Double-click on the new folder that contains the Zip/RAR file and double-click on the file to read it.

References

• CNet: WinRAR Download
• 7-Zip: Welcome to the 7-Zip Home!
• Tech Sono: SuperNZB