Zip files are files that have been grouped together and digitally shortened to consume less space. This makes storing and transporting the files easier. It is very simple to create a zip file. These are the three most common ways on how to zip files.
- Windows and Mac computers ship with the ability to create zip files out of the box. No special software is needed.
- A 3rd party software like the popular WinZip, WinRAR, 7Zip or other.
- A free online file zipping tool.
Zipping in Microsoft Windows
The following directions are posted at the Microsoft support website: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/14200/windows-compress-uncompress-zip-files
- Locate the file or folder that you want to zip.
- Press and hold (or right-click) the file or folder, select (or point to) Send to, and then select Compressed (zipped) folder.A new zipped folder with the same name is created in the same location. To rename it, press and hold (or right-click) the folder, select Rename, and then type the new name.
An example on YouTube:
Zipping in Apple Mac
The following directions are posted at the Microsoft support website: https://support.apple.com/kb/PH19074?locale=en_US
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Compress a file or folder: Control-click it or tap it using two fingers, then choose Compress from the shortcut menu.
If you compress a single item, the compressed file has the name of the original item with the .zip extension. If you compress multiple items at once, the compressed file is called Archive.zip.
An example on YouTube:
Zipping with 3rd Party Software
We pretty much assume that if you bother using 3rd party software for zipping files, that you know how to zip files. Please refer to the instructions that came with the software. ;D
Zipping with an Online Service
WARNING: Free services like these can be handy at times. However, be warned… Your files will be accessible to the administrators of the service. Make sure you review the privacy policy and that you trust the service.