What is a ZIP file?

ZIP — universal archive

What is it?

ZIP bundles several files into one, compressing them in the process. It's the universal archive format: Windows, macOS and Linux can all open it without installing anything extra.

Each file is compressed independently of the others, which means you can extract a single file without decompressing the rest. That flexibility comes at a cost: the compression ratio is weaker than what you get with 7Z or RAR.

History & origin

Phil Katz created ZIP in 1989, following a legal battle with the publisher of a rival format. His response was to design a better format — and release it into the public domain.

That decision explains its dominance: ZIP is everywhere, including places you wouldn't expect. A DOCX file, an XLSX, an EPUB, an Android app — all of these are, technically, ZIP archives in disguise.

Why it is useful

Universal compatibility, with no extra software needed, on virtually every system.

Selective extraction, optional encryption, and fast processing.

Limits & drawbacks

A lower compression ratio than modern formats: a 7Z archive is often 20 to 30% smaller.

ZIP's traditional encryption is weak — only its AES variant is genuinely secure, and not every program supports it.

Practical tips

ZIP is the right choice whenever you need to send a folder to someone: you can be sure they'll be able to open it.

For tighter archiving on your own machine, 7Z will do better. For sending files to others, don't take that risk.

Convert your ZIP in seconds, on our secure servers in France.

Convert a ZIP