Compressing files has been a long-standing tradition for Windows users. It allows users to save space, archive files, and transfer data easily without the risk of corruption. With the new Windows 11 update, finding certain options and features can be quite challenging. In this tutorial, we will guide you on how to zip a single or multiple files on Windows 11.
How to Zip Files in Windows 11
There are many ways to compress files in Windows 11, depending on user preference. For simple file compression, we recommend using the native tool built into Windows 11. However, if you need to compress multiple files, we suggest using a third-party utility for better compression. Here are two simple methods to compress files on Windows 11:
Method 1: Using Windows Explorer
The Windows compression tool is now integrated into the new Windows 11 File Explorer ribbon. Here’s how to do it:
Compress a Single File with Windows Explorer
Option #1: Using the ‘New’ Menu
- Navigate to the file you want to compress, click on it, and select it.
- Click on ‘New’ and select ‘Compressed (zipped) folder’.
- Enter a name for the new zipped folder and press Enter on your keyboard.
- Now, you will have a new .ZIP file folder containing the file you selected.
Option #2: Using the ‘More’ Menu
- Select the file you want to compress from your local storage by clicking on it.
- Click on the ‘3 dots’ menu icon in the upper right corner and select ‘Compress to .ZIP file’.
- The file will be compressed in .ZIP format. Enter a relevant name for the file and press Enter once you’re done
- You have now compressed the file itself instead of a folder containing the file.
Option #3: Using the Right-Click Context Menu
- Find the file you want to compress on your local storage and right-click on it.
- Select ‘Compress to ZIP file’.
- Type the desired name for the new file and press Enter on your keyboard once you are done.
- You have now compressed the desired file.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party Utility
If you need to compress multiple files and folders, you can use third-party compression software such as WinRAR or 7-Zip. These tools offer stronger compression and more options than the native Windows compression tool. Once you have installed one of these tools, compressing files is as simple as selecting the files or folders you want to compress and selecting the ‘Compress’ or ‘Zip’ option from the right-click context menu.
Conclusion
Compressing files on Windows 11 is a simple process, whether you opt for using the native tool or a third-party utility. Following the above guide will help you free up space, archive files, and transfer data easily without compromising its integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you unzip files using the native Windows compression tool?
Yes, Windows 11’s native compression tool can also be used to unzip files. Simply locate the compressed file and select ‘Extract All’ from the right-click context menu.
2. Is it safe to use third-party compression software?
Yes, it is safe to use third-party compression software as long as you download it from a reliable source. These tools have been designed to compress and extract files securely without causing any harm to your system.
