WinZip's 7z Opener Functionality
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What is a 7z file extension?
The 7z file extension is a compressed archive format created with 7-zip open-source software. It’s similar to a ZIP file but uses a different lossless compression method called LZMA to reduce file size while preserving quality.
To truly understand what the 7z file format is, you could compare it in many ways to a ZIP file. But while the 7z file format boasts a slightly better compression than a ZIP file, it does not feature the same compatibility.
One benefit of using the 7z file extension is that it can split larger files into several smaller parts. This is especially helpful when transferring or downloading larger folders and files.
7z is also an open-source format with an open architecture that allows any compression, conversion and encryption method to be used as you please.
Even though 7z has some advantages to a ZIP file, it’s not as compatible and will require 3rd party programs in order to use. This can be disadvantageous when sending important 7z files as your recipient might not be able to open it.
What are 7z files used for?
Much like a ZIP file, the primary use for the 7z file extension is to efficiently compress files, which puts one or several files into one folder in a smaller size without losing data. While the compression is slightly better than a ZIP file, it’s not as widely supported and will often require 3rd party platforms to open and create 7z archives.
The 7z file format can be used for:
- Storing larger files in a smaller format
- Compressing files and sending them by email
- Archiving and compressing multiple files in one 7z
How to Create 7z Files
While you can’t create a compressed 7z file using WinZip, you can instead create a ZIP file that provides all the same benefits with wider compatibility.
To create a ZIP file with WinZip, follow these simple steps:
- Navigate to File, then new Zip file.
- Select the file (or files) you want to create as a Zip folder.
- Under Share or save Zip create the new Zip file to the location of your choice or email it directly to your chosen recipient.
Converting 7z Files
If you’re wondering how to convert a 7z file, you can do so by using WinZip. The most common conversion is to convert a 7z file to a ZIP file. This gives you all the benefits from the 7z file extension in a much more compatible format.
Since 7z files don’t boast the same compatibility, your recipient might find it troublesome to open when you’re emailing or uploading your file. So by using WinZips 7z file converter, your recipients will be able to access the files without any issues.
Follow this detailed guide to convert your 7z file into ZIP with WinZip:
- Follow the steps above in “How to Open 7z Files”.
- Now select the files you wish to ZIP from your PC, network, or cloud services in the files panel.
- Click “Add to Zip”.
- In the actions panel, click “Save as”.
- Choose any local, network or cloud location where you wish to save your new ZIP file.
- You may also choose to email it, share it in an instant message or via supported social media platforms.
Password Protecting 7z Files
Having a password protected 7z file is crucial if you're storing or sharing sensitive data. By encrypting your 7z file, you can set your own password that stays the same whether you’re adding or removing files from the archive folder or sending the file to other people.
WinZip is not able to password protect your 7z file. However, you can convert your 7z file into a ZIP file using WinZip. This will allow you to encrypt and password-protect your 7z file.
Please follow these simple steps to password encrypt your ZIP file using WinZip:
Once you’ve converted your 7z file into a ZIP file, follow these steps to encrypt it.
- Open WinZip.
- Click “Encrypt” in the actions panel.”
- Drag and drop the file you wish to encrypt into the center and enter a password when the prompt appears.
- Click “Options” in the action panel to choose your encryption settings and click save.
