Compressing files and folders is now a standard function from Windows XP and onwards.
What are Zip files?
A Zip file is a single file that contains one or more compressed files. Zip files make it easy to keep related files together and make transporting, e-mailing, downloading and storing data and software faster and more efficient. The Zip format is the most popular compression format used in the Windows environment.
Why use Zip files?
Zip files compress data and therefore save time and space and make downloading software and transferring e-mail attachments faster. Typical uses for Zip files include:
- Distributing files on the Internet: Only one download is required to obtain all related files, and file transfer is quicker because the archived files are compressed.
- Sending a group of related files to an associate: When you distribute a collection of files as a single Zip file, you benefit from the file grouping as well as compression.
- Saving disk space: If you have large files that are important but seldom used, such as large data files, simply compress the files into a Zip file and then unzip (or "extract") them only when needed.
Steps to compress your file(s) and or folder(s)
1.
Select a single file, group of files or a folder in windows explorer.
2. Right click
your selected files or folder and go to the 'Send To' 'Compressed (zipped) Folder' option.
3. A new folder will be created that contains your files or folder in compressed format. You should notice a decrease in file size*.
4. You can now attach this zipped file to your email and send it.
* File sizes may not be reduced on some Jpeg and pdf files as these files may have already been compressed when saved.
Steps to extract your file(s) and or folder(s)
1.
Select your zipped file that has been saved to your hard drive in windows explorer.
2. Right click
the zip file and go to the 'Extract All' option.
3. You will be presented with a wizard that will step you through the extraction process. Click 'Next'.
4. You will be asked where you would like to extract the files to. Browse your location and click 'Next'.
5. The files will be extracted to your chosen location. You will now have the option to finish and view your extracted files.
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