Zipping and compressing larger batches of files once took a lot of time and required the use of paid software, but WinZip now lets you compress files easily for free.
Zip File software, free download
Integrates with Windows Task Scheduler. Two-step verification. Complicated setup. Windows Installer 6.0 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 Windows Server 2008 R2, 2012 and 2012 R2. For Windows XP, Vista, Windows Server 2003 and 2008, you must download Windows Installer 4.5.
Compressing files saves on the amount of storage space available on your computer. When you have dozens of old college papers that you want to save for future reference or you have old work projects saved on your hard drive, you can use WinZip to compress those files together. While you'll still have total access to those files, you'll save up some space on your hard drive.
WinZip features two different modes. Wizard Mode is best for those who never compressed files before and those who need some extra help. It walks you through each step and makes it easy to select the files you want to use and compress those files into a smaller package. Classic Mode offers more customized features and is better for those with more experience. You can change the settings of those files in Classic Mode or add a list of your favorite files. Classic Mode even lets you add a password to compressed files to limit the access others have to those files.
Though there are other similar paid and free programs available, WinZip sets itself apart in a few ways. It offers more privacy protection than you'll find in those other programs. In addition to privacy protection, you can also add security features that limit who can access any of those zipped files. Another new feature allows you to share and use files via cloud storage. Some of the cloud storage programs that will work with WinZip include Google Drive, Dropbox and CloudMe. Save even more storage space after transferring zipped files into the cloud.
WinZip is free to use but also has a paid version available. After you download and use the free version, it will show you ads that encourage you to buy the full version. Those ads will remain in place for several seconds or more and block you from using the app. This can get annoying after a few times, but the ads will never go away unless you upgrade. If you need to compress files and want access to cloud storage, though, WinZip is your best choice.
Pros:
- Supports many of the more common file formats
- Saves space on your hard drive
- Works with many cloud storage options
- Features two modes for beginners and expert users
- Can extract files from zipped files and folders
Free Zip Installer Download Free
Google chrome standalone 32 bit installer. Cons:
- Is not compatible with all file types and formats
- Limits compressed files into one format
- Includes a pop-up ad each time you open it
- Ads remain in place indefinitely on free versions
- May not work well for all users
