What do you do when you need to transfer a massive file or a group of files? Create a ZIP folder, of course. File compression is a big part of most digital workspaces because they make emailing easier and allow you to archive files using less storage space.
If you’re used to the file compression process in Windows 10 but have moved on to Windows 11, you might not be sure if there are any notable changes.
Also, if Windows 11 is your first encounter with the operating system, likely, you aren’t familiar with the file compression process at all. Fortunately, this thorough guide will provide all the answers.
How to Zip Files in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide
While Windows 11 brought some changes to the familiar Windows interface and added a few new features, zipping files still works based on the same principle as Windows 10 and older versions.
There are two ways to compress a file in Windows 11, and both are quick and straightforward.
Solution 1
The most efficient way to zip a large file or a folder is to use a reliable shortcut.
- Select a file or folder you want to compress.
- Right-click on the file or folder.
- Select the “Compress to ZIP file” option from the extending menu.
The compressed file will automatically appear in the exact location as the original file or folder. It will contain the same file name, but you can rename it.
Keep in mind that you can also select multiple files and folders and right-click on any of them to achieve the same results.
Solution 2
Another way to zip files in Windows 11 is to utilize the File Explorer app, which is essentially the face of the Windows OS. Here’s how that works.
- Press the Win Key + E on your keyboard to launch the File Explorer.
- Go to the folder location where you want to keep the zip file.
- From the main menu, click the “New” button.
- Select the “Compressed (zipped) Folder” option.
- Enter the folder’s name and hit Enter.
- Select the files you want to compress.
- Right-click on the files and select “Cut.”
- Open the newly created zip folder.
- Click “Paste” on the main toolbar.
You can always add more files to this folder by dropping them directly into the folder or copying and pasting them from another destination.
How to Unzip Files in Windows 11
Learning how to compress files in Windows 11 is essential as it’s something you’ll surely need to do at some point. But it’s also crucial to know how to extract files from the zipped files and use them separately.
Here are all the steps you need to follow to unzip files in Windows 11.
- Locate the zipped file you want to unzip.
- Right-click on the file.
- Select “Extract All.”
- A new pop-up window will appear. It will allow you to select the extraction path for the files in the folder you’re about to unzip. Select the destination for the files.
- Check the “Show extracted files when complete” box.
- Click the “Extract” button.
The unzipping process is fast but will vary depending on how many files there are in the folder and their size.
FAQs
Can you create zip files on mobile devices?
Yes, you can, but not always natively. While iPhones have a built-in file compressing feature, Android devices do not. However, you can download one of many available file compression apps from the Google Play store.
How much does zipping reduce file size?
Windows file compression is particularly useful because it doesn’t change the quality of the files while still reducing them in size. Overall, the Windows compression feature can reduce the file size by up to 50%.
Can zip files become corrupted?
If you have ever received a zip file and found it impossible to open, it has likely been corrupted. This problem is somewhat common and can occur for several reasons.
Sometimes the flash drive you’re downloading the zip file to is damaged. Or the download process was interrupted, leading to unreadable data.
Zipping and Unzipping Files in Windows 11
If you’re a Windows 11 user, you know that sorting through files is pretty easy and intuitive. But sometimes, organizing files requires compressing them into zip files. It’s also a necessary practice in some organizations requiring users only to attach or upload zipped files.
The good news is that the compression process is made easy, and you can manage it by right-clicking on the selected files or folders or going through the steps in the File Explorer.
What type of files do you typically compress? Do you find the zipping process easy? Let us know in the comments section below.
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