A ZIP file is a compressed folder that contains multiple files. Using ZIP files allows me to provide multiple files in one easy download.
ZIP files need to be unzipped in order to extract the files inside. Both PCs and Macs are able to unzip ZIP files without additional software. iPhones and iPads will require an additional app.
On a PC:
- Right-click on the unopened ZIP folder.
- Choose “Extract All” from the menu that opens.
- Choose a destination. This is the place where you want to keep the unzipped files. You can choose “My Documents,” for example.
- Click “Extract.”
On a Mac:
Double-click the unopened ZIP — the file should extract automatically.
If that doesn’t work, hold down the control key and click the ZIP file icon. Choose “Open With” and then select “Archive Utility.” The utility will extract the ZIP files, and you can find them in the same folder where you downloaded them.
On a Chromebook:
- Double-click on the ZIP file.
- You’ll notice that the ZIP file has been mounted and is located in the sidebar of the file manager alongside your Downloads folder, Google Drive account, and any other services you mounted.
- To extract the files from your archive, open a new file manager window, browse to or create a folder for the files, and then drag everything from one window to the other.
- This will extract those files out of the ZIP archive and make them accessible to you.
On a mobile iOS device, such as an iPhone or iPad:
If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, you’ll need to download and install an app. iZip is a popular and reliable option that is free in the App Store.
After you have the app installed, log in and go to your “My Purchases” page. Tap “Download Now” next to the zipped resource. When the download is complete, you’ll be redirected to a page where you can choose how to open the file.
- Tap “Open in iZip.”
- That will redirect you to iZip. Tap “OK” to extract.
- Tap the folder.
- Tap the individual files within the folder, and they’ll open in the appropriate program.