Understanding Windows 11’s "Compress to ZIP File" Feature
Introduction
Windows 11 includes a built-in "Compress to ZIP file" feature in File Explorer, allowing users to create ZIP archives effortlessly. However, some users may notice that their ZIP files appear as "WinRAR ZIP Archive" instead of just ZIP. This blog clarifies why that happens and whether you need third-party software like WinRAR.
Why Does Windows Show "WinRAR ZIP Archive"?
When you install WinRAR, it associates itself with ZIP files by default. This means that even though the file format is still .zip, the icon and description may show "WinRAR ZIP Archive." However, the file remains a standard ZIP file that can be opened without WinRAR.
Is WinRAR Required to Open These ZIP Files?
No, WinRAR is not required. Since the .zip format is natively supported in Windows, ChromeOS, and Google Drive, you can open, extract, and manage ZIP files without third-party apps.
How to Restore Windows' Default ZIP File Handler
If you want ZIP files to open with Windows' built-in tool instead of WinRAR, follow these steps:
Right-click the ZIP file.
Select "Open with" > "Choose another app".
Select "File Explorer" from the list.
Check "Always use this app to open .zip files".
Click OK.
This will reset ZIP files to open with Windows' native tool, removing the "WinRAR ZIP Archive" label.
Conclusion
Windows 11’s built-in ZIP compression works seamlessly across devices and does not require third-party software. If your ZIP files show "WinRAR ZIP Archive," it’s just a file association issue that can be easily changed. Enjoy hassle-free file compression and extraction without unnecessary apps!
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