What is a ZIP file?
ZIP — universal archive
Use the format ZIP
A concrete example
Collect the files of a project in an archive that is easy to transmit.
Useful checks
Check the folder structure and names after extraction. Recompressing JPEG or videos often reduces their size little.
Choose a conversion
Keep the original and open the result in the software or on the device that will need to use it.
Your questions about this format
Why did I receive a TAR.GZ file?
Gzip compresses a stream, while TAR groups the files of a folder. The engine therefore combines the two to preserve the contents of a multi-part archive. Open the TAR.GZ with compatible software, then check the extracted files.
Does converting an archive change the documents inside?
The goal is to change their container, not to convert each document. A PDF in an archive remains a PDF. To change its format, extract it and then use the Documents theme.
Will a ZIP archive necessarily be smaller?
No. JPEG photos, videos, or already compressed archives may shrink very little. Compare the size and prioritize especially the format that your recipient knows how to open.
What to do with a protected or damaged archive?
The form does not ask for a password. Unlock your archive locally if you are allowed to, then try again with a copy. If it is damaged, first check that your local software can extract the files; paying does not repair an unreadable 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