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How to Zip a Folder in Windows 10 and Mac

If the built-in compression tool does not satisfy you, let a third-party software do the job

2 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Compressing files and folders is really important especially if you want to gain or free more space or if you want to safely store or transfer your personal data.

Since Microsoft changed the Windows UI, you might have experienced problems while trying to complete basic operations such as compressing files or folders.

So, if you are trying to zip a folder on a Windows OS or Mac but you can’t manage to complete this task, check out the guidelines below.

How can I zip folders on Windows 10 or Mac?

How can I zip folders on Windows 10 or Mac?

1. Use file compression software

There are tens of file compression tools available on the market, but today we are recommendingWinZip.

It’s not just about the popularity of this tool, but it is really more than a just simple compression tool. It also allows users to share, manage, protect, andback upfiles.

WinZip can compress and unzips all major file formats, such as Zip, Zipx, RAR, 7z, TAR, GZIP, VHD, XZ and more.

Other notable features of WinZip include finding, opening, editing, moving, and sharing the files stored on PCs, networks, or cloud services.

WinZip alsoencrypts filesto secure information and data and can create read-only PDFs and addwatermarksto deter copying.

The tool is integrated with Dropbox, G-Suite, or OneDrive.

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”WinZip”

2. Use the built-in compression feature on Windows 10

  1. OpenFile Explorerwindow on your device – you can do that by typingFile Explorerin the search bar.

  2. Now navigate to the file location of the files or folders you want to compress.

  3. Right click on the folder/folders you want to zip.

4. Click or tap onsend toand selectCompressed zipped folder.

  1. Next, a compressed folder will be automatically created in the same location you are currently located and with the same name as thefile/folderyou zipped.

  2. You can add new files or folders to the zipped folder at any time by drag & dropping the data you want to be compressed.

A fast and reliable solution on how to zip folders is to use the built-in compression feature. This way, you no longer have to rely on external software, you simply use what you already have on your PC.

3. Use the built-in compression featureon Mac

There you have it, that’s how you can compress or zip a folder or file on your device.

If you’ve got additional tips and tricks on how to zip files and folders on a Windows computer, do share your suggestions in the comments below.

More about the topics:file compression,Windows 10 Guides

Andrew Wafer

Andrew is not just trying to bring you closer to Windows, but he’s truly interested in this platform. He just happens to be passionate about sharing that knowledge with our readers and that’s what makes his presence here, at WindowsReport, such a valuable one.

He specializes in writing about the best products for this operating system and Windows 10 fixes. Determined and creative, Andrew also loves coffee, country music, and Sunday mornings.

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