How to Open a Password ZIP Without the Password

Keep track of your ZIP passwords in a safe location so you aren't locked out of your files.

ZIP files are a convenient and commonly used way to send large files online, as the "zipping" process allows you to compress the file. In many cases, you may choose to set your ZIP file with a password so that no one without the password will be able to unzip and open the file. However, if you forget the password yourself, you'll be unable to access your own file. The only way to recover your ZIP password is with third-party software that specializes in cracking ZIP file passwords.

Instructions

1. Download password-cracking software for ZIP files. A few examples are Zip Password Cracker, Zip Password Finder and Zip Key (see Resources).

2. Click "Save File" in the window that opens when you go to download the program. Double-click the icon of the program on your desktop, check to accept the terms and conditions, and click "Install."

3. Launch the program. Find and select your ZIP file in the main menu and click "Recover" to begin the recovery process. Once the program recovers and displays your password, you can use it to open the ZIP file.

Tips & Warnings

• For particularly long or complicated passwords, the program may take several hours to find the password. However, you may use other applications on your computer while your password is being retrieved.

• If you frequently password-protect your ZIP files, create a folder to keep track of those passwords in case you forget them.

References

• Tech FAQ: How Can I Recover a ZIP Password?

Resources

• Zip Password Finder
• Zip Password Cracker
• Zip Key