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A zip file is a single archive file that contains one or more files and folders that have been compressed to reduce their size. This makes it more efficient to store the data and easier to send it over the internet. The process of creating a zip file is often called "zipping" or "compressing," while accessing the contents is called "unzipping" or "extracting".

How zip files work

Zip files use a form of lossless data compression, which means no information is lost in the process. The algorithm replaces repeating data patterns with a shorter reference, which significantly reduces the file size, particularly for text documents. When you unzip the file, the process is reversed, and the original, uncompressed files are fully restored.

Key uses for zip files

Saving storage space: Compressing large or numerous files can free up storage on your computer or external drive.

Organizing multiple files: A zip file functions as a single container, bundling many related files and folders into one easily managed archive.

Faster file transfer: Smaller, compressed files upload and download more quickly, which is particularly useful for sending multiple items via email attachments or over a network.

Archiving and backups: It's an efficient way to create backups of important files or to archive old projects.

Password protection: Many archiving tools support password protection to secure your compressed data from unauthorized access.