Using Zip Files: Unzipping (extracting Zip files)

What is Zipping & Unzipping? What is a Zip file?

Zipping is the process of compressing several files or folders and storing them in a single compressed file called an "archive". Several types of archives exist. "Zip file" is the most common type of archive. Unzipping is the reverse of zipping - unzipping means decompressing a Zip file (or another type of archive) and extracting its contents, i.e. the original files & folders that where zipped and stored in the Zip file. You need to unzip a Zip file before you can access its contents.
 
Diagram illustrating zipping and unzipping

Why do I need to Unzip?

If you received or downloaded an archive, such as a Zip file, you will need to unzip it before you can access its contents. This is because the files contained in the archive are compressed (zipped). They need to be decompressed - unzipped - before they can be used. In order to do that, you will need a Zip program such as PowerZip.

How do I get PowerZip?

PowerZip is an easy to use Zip program. Use PowerZip to unzip Zip files. You can purchase PowerZip for $20* (US) and receive it immediately with online delivery. You will be protected by a 45-day 100% satisfaction money-back guarantee.

 

You can also download a free trial version of PowerZip. The trial version will expire after 45 days. You will then have to either purchase PowerZip or uninstall it.

I was sent / I downloaded a Zip file. How do I unzip it?

First, please ensure that PowerZip is installed on your computer. If PowerZip is installed, it will appear in the Start menu under Programs. If you haven't yet installed PowerZip, please see "How do I get PowerZip?" above. Then, please follow the steps below.

1. Locate your Zip file
Open My Computer (or Windows Explorer) and go to the folder where you placed the Zip file that you wish to unzip. If you received the Zip file by e-mail, please be sure to save it to disk first. Your Zip files will have a green folder icon:
 
  Step 1: Locate the Zip file that you wish to unzip

2. Open the Zip file in PowerZip
Double-click on the Zip file to open it in PowerZip. You will see the contents of the Zip file. To view a file, double-click on it.

3. Unzip the Zip file
Once you've opened the Zip file in PowerZip, click "Unzip" to unzip it:
 
  Step 3: Click 'Unzip' in PowerZip to decompress the Zip file

You will be prompted to select the folder where you wish to place the unzipped files.

Another way to unzip
If you just want to unzip a Zip file and you don't need to view its contents, you can simply right-click on the Zip file and choose "Unzip":
 
  A quicker way to unzip: right-click on the Zip file and choose 'Unzip'

See Also: Creating Zip Files

* Price for online delivery; excludes residents of Australia and the European Union. Australian & EU residents - please see the order form for pricing.