How to Compress Files on Windows 11

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

Compressing Files on Windows 11

Compressing files on Windows 11 allows you to save space and make it easier to share or transfer multiple files. Here's how to do it:

Using File Explorer:

Open File Explorer by clicking the folder icon in the taskbar or pressing "Win + E" on your keyboard.

Navigate to the folder containing the files you want to compress.

Select the files you want to compress. You can hold "Ctrl" and click on individual files or use "Ctrl + A" to select all files in the folder.

Right-click on the selected files and choose "Send to" from the context menu.

In the "Send to" submenu, select "Compressed (zipped) folder." This action will create a new compressed folder with your selected files.

You can rename the compressed folder by clicking on its name and typing a new one. Press "Enter" to confirm the name.

Your files are now compressed and stored in the newly created folder. You can open the compressed folder to access the files within or share it as needed.

Using Windows Zip Utility:

Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder with the files you want to compress.

Select the files you want to compress.

On the "Share" tab in the File Explorer ribbon, click on "Zip."

A new compressed folder will be created in the same directory. You can rename it if desired.

Your selected files are now compressed and stored in the newly created folder.

Using a Third-Party Compression Software:

Download and install a third-party compression software like 7-Zip, WinRAR, or WinZip.

Open the software you've installed.

Navigate to the folder containing the files you want to compress within the software's interface.

Select the files you want to compress.

Find an option in the software to create a compressed archive. This option is typically labeled as "Add to Archive" or "Create ZIP" and may be found in the software's menu or toolbar.

Follow the prompts to set compression options and create the archive.

The software will create a compressed archive containing your selected files.

Compressing files on Windows 11 is a straightforward process, and it can help you save storage space and make it easier to manage and share your files. You can choose to use Windows' built-in compression feature or third-party software for more advanced options.

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