Zipping files compresses them into a single, smaller package that is easier to email, upload, or store. Both Windows and Mac can create a zip archive with no extra software.
Step by step
- Select your filesClick one file, or hold Control on Windows or Command on a Mac to select several. You can also select an entire folder to zip everything inside it.
- Zip on WindowsRight-click the selection, choose Compress to ZIP file, or point to Send to and pick Compressed zipped folder. A new zip file appears in the same location.
- Zip on a MacRight-click or Control-click the selection and choose Compress. macOS creates a file called Archive.zip, or names it after a single selected item.
- Rename the archiveClick the new zip file once, then rename it to something clear so the recipient knows what is inside.
- Check the resultDouble-click the zip to preview its contents and confirm every file you expected is included before you send or upload it.
Handy tips
- Zipping is great for grouping many files into one attachment, even when the size savings are small.
- Already-compressed files like JPGs, MP3s, and videos shrink very little when zipped.
- To share a zip by email, check your provider's attachment size limit, often around 25 megabytes.
FAQ
Does zipping reduce file quality?
No. Zip uses lossless compression, so your files come out exactly as they went in when you unzip them. Nothing is lost.
How do I open a zip file someone sent me?
On Windows, right-click and choose Extract All. On a Mac, double-click the zip and the files unpack into the same folder.
Can I password-protect a zip file?
The built-in tools do not add passwords. For that you need dedicated software such as an archiving app that offers encryption when creating the zip.