FileHero guide
How to extract files from a ZIP archive
A step-by-step guide to extract files from a ZIP archive, with advice on the settings and checks that matter.
Before you start
Only open archives from a source you trust. Look at the names inside before choosing what to extract.
How to do it, step by step
- Open your ZIP archive and wait for its contents to appear.
- Select the files you actually need. Check names and folders before extracting an unfamiliar archive.
- Extract the selection and open one of the saved files to check the result.
Check the saved file
Check that the expected folders and documents were extracted, not just the archive itself.
Why a ZIP archive will not extract
An incomplete download or unsupported archive can prevent extraction. A small ZIP may also expand into a very large set of files. Download a fresh copy and try selecting only the needed files. For very large archives, use a desktop archive utility with enough free disk space.