In fact, if you use it to compress an encrypted file, it will be decrypted when extracted. It can only read and create ZIP files (there are dozens of other formats).Īdditionally, the built-in Windows zip utility doesn't let you create multiple volumes of a particular size, can't repair damaged archives, and doesn't support encryption. This is fine for very occasional use, but is very limited. Windows (from XP onwards) has a built-in compression tool, accessed by right-clicking one or more folders/files, and selecting 'Send to > Compressed (zipped) folder'.
WinZip is the best-known software for creating and opening compressed file archives, but it's not the only option and there are many superb free alternatives worth investigating before you open your wallet.
