Received a RAR file and need to open it? WinRAR lets you browse an archive before extracting it, and adds archive commands to Windows’ right-click menu, so you can open RAR and ZIP files or create new archives from File Explorer.
Archive window and extraction
Open an archive in WinRAR to see its files and folders, then select items to extract or choose a destination for the contents. The program handles RAR and ZIP files, along with formats such as 7Z, TAR, and ISO.
For routine unpacking, File Explorer’s context menu provides commands such as extracting files to a chosen folder or extracting them in place. WinRAR can also test an archive for errors before you rely on its contents.
RAR and ZIP creation
Select files or folders and choose Add to archive to set the archive name and format. WinRAR creates RAR and ZIP archives, with controls for compression and options such as password protection.
Large archives can be divided into volumes, which is handy when files need to be transferred in separate parts. The program can also create self-extracting archives that include an extractor, so recipients can unpack the files without opening the archive in WinRAR.
Recovery and archive security
WinRAR’s repair command attempts to reconstruct damaged archives. Recovery records, when included during archive creation, provide data that can help restore a damaged archive. Password-protected archives cannot be opened without the password.
Pros
- Creates archives in RAR and ZIP formats
- Extracts RAR, ZIP, and other archive formats
- Offers context-menu commands for common archive tasks
- Can split archives into volumes
System requirements: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 11
Can WinRAR open ZIP files?
Yes. WinRAR can open and extract ZIP files as well as RAR and other archive formats.
Can WinRAR create ZIP files?
Yes. Use Add to archive and select ZIP as the archive format.
What are WinRAR volumes?
Volumes are parts of a split archive. WinRAR can create them for transferring or storing an archive in separate pieces.