7-Zip

7-Zip v26.01

Free, open-source file archiver with the high-ratio 7z format, AES-256 encryption, and support for extracting ZIP, TAR, RAR, ISO, and more.

Updated April 27, 2026
Free · Freeware
580,983 downloads
1.60 MB
4.4
Very good 557 user ratings
Listed in our directory since 2026
Official download source: Igor Pavlov
Reviewed by MooSoft Editorial
Last updated May 18, 2026

Overview

7-Zip app is a file compressor and extractor in Windows. It can be used to compress file size, open archives, and manipulate data. The app is compatible with ZIP, RAR, TAR, GZ, and its own 7z format. It provides shortcuts in the right-click menus.

To pack files into an archive, you can select them and click on the option of adding to archive. The app allows you to choose the level of compression, the format of the file, and even password. It is also possible to divide big archives into sections, which is useful in storage or sharing. All the options are presented in a basic dialog box.

 

To open an archive, right-click and choose the option of extracting here or to a folder. You may extract all files or choose some of them. The app also displays the contents of an archive even before you open it so that you can be able to check what is inside.

 

7-Zip app supports numerous archive formats such as ZIP, 7z, TAR, GZ, BZIP2, and others. It even opens RAR, ISO and others. It provides high compression ratios particularly its 7z format. Its easy file manager allows you to browse archives, create folders and move files.

The app is installable on Windows. It operates on 32-bit and 64-bit. The interface remains light and clean. You will get a typical two-panel interface and you can drag and drop files to compress or extract them in a short time.

 

However, 7-Zip app lacks cloud storage and file sharing. It also fails to allow you to preview the contents of files such as images or documents. Before you can view files, you have to extract them. Other advanced options, such as the selection of compression methods, need a basic understanding of the compression process.

Key Features

  • 7z format with LZMA and LZMA2 compression
  • Packs 7z, ZIP, GZIP, BZIP2, TAR, and WIM
  • Extracts RAR, ISO, DMG, MSI, RPM, and DEB
  • AES-256 archive encryption
  • Self-extracting archive creation
  • Windows Explorer shell integration
  • Command-line interface for automation
What We Liked
  • Free and open source under the GNU LGPL, free for commercial use
  • Native 7z format reaches higher compression ratios than ZIP on most data
  • Reads and writes 7z, ZIP, GZIP, TAR, and WIM; extracts RAR, ISO, DMG, and more
  • AES-256 encryption protects 7z and ZIP archive contents
  • Includes a command-line build for scripting and batch jobs
What Could Be Better
  • File manager keeps a utilitarian look with no modern theming
  • Creates many formats but cannot create RAR archives, only extract them
  • macOS and Linux builds are command-line only, without a graphical app
  • Lacks cloud integration and archive preview found in some commercial tools

System Requirements

Minimum
OS Windows 7 SP1 or later, 32-bit or 64-bit
CPU Any x86 or x64 processor
RAM 256 MB
Storage 20 MB

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