Frequently asked questions about 7-Zip
FAQShort answers for the topics people ask about most. Details can change between versions.
Is 7-Zip the same thing as “zip”?
Zip is one archive format among many. 7-Zip is the name of the program. It can create zip files, but it also offers its own 7z format that often compresses better at the cost of slightly less ubiquitous support.
Do I have to pay for a license?
No retail license is required for normal use. The software is free under the terms described on the Overview page, including typical office scenarios.
Can it open RAR files?
It can extract many RAR archives. Creating RAR files is generally outside its scope; treat RAR as a read-mostly format here.
Will it run on my version of Windows?
Recent builds target modern Windows releases while still supporting a long tail of older systems. If you are on an unusual edition, install the matching CPU architecture package (64-bit, 32-bit, or ARM64) from your own download section once files are in place.
Is it safe to delete the original files after archiving?
Only after you have opened the archive on the same or another PC and confirmed nothing is missing or corrupted. Archives are not a substitute for backups unless you maintain redundant copies.
Why do context menus sometimes look different?
Shell extensions can be reordered by other tools, and some editions of Windows hide infrequently used entries until you expand the menu. You can still launch the full program from the Start menu.