How to Unzip (Extract) Files on Windows 11 and 10
Step-by-step guide to unzipping files with Extract All, previewing a zip without extracting it, and using Windows 11's native RAR and 7z support.
Right-click any .zip file and choose Extract All to unzip it on Windows 11 or 10 — no extra software needed. Since version 24H2, Windows 11 also opens .rar and .7z files the same way, but a few jobs (passwords, split archives, real compression control) still call for 7-Zip. That password limit did not change with version 25H2: File Explorer’s Extract All still cannot open encrypted or password-protected archives of any format, and it usually fails quietly instead of prompting you, so those files need 7-Zip or WinRAR.
Extract a Zip File With Extract All
- Right-click (or press and hold) the zipped folder. On Windows 11’s compact menu, click Show more options first if you don’t see Extract All, or just press Shift+F10 on the selected file.
- Select Extract All…
- Accept the suggested destination folder or click Browse to pick another one.
- Check Show extracted files when complete if you want the folder to open automatically.
- Click Extract.
Preview a Zip Without Extracting Everything
You don’t have to unzip the whole archive just to grab one file. Double-click the zipped folder and File Explorer opens it like a regular folder, showing every file and subfolder inside. From there, drag only the item you need out to your desktop or another folder — the rest stays compressed until you ask for it.
Does Windows 11 Really Open RAR and 7z Natively?
Yes. As of Windows 11, version 24H2, File Explorer natively reads .zip, .rar, .7z, .tar, and several tar variants — you can browse them like folders and run Extract All on them exactly as with a zip file, confirmed on Microsoft’s own support page. File Explorer can also create .zip, .7z, and .tar archives from the right-click Compress to menu, though it still can’t create .rar files, since RAR is a licensed format Microsoft doesn’t own. Version 25H2 adds a real speed boost when extracting large .7z and .rar archives. Windows 10 never got this update — its Explorer still only handles .zip on its own, which is one more reason to plan your move before Windows 10 end of support.
When You Still Need 7-Zip
| Symptom | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Archive says it needs a password | Native extractor doesn’t support encrypted archives | Install 7-Zip and open the file there |
File is .rar.part1, .7z.001, or similar | Split/multi-volume archives aren’t handled natively | Use 7-Zip or WinRAR, which reassemble the parts automatically |
You’re on Windows 10 and .rar/.7z won’t open | Native support is a Windows 11 24H2+ feature only | Install 7-Zip, or extract on a Windows 11 PC |
| You need a smaller file or AES-256 password protection | Explorer’s built-in zip has no encryption option | Use 7-Zip’s Add to Archive dialog with a password and higher compression level |
If you’re zipping files to send or store rather than just unzip them, worth reading how to back up your files properly first — a zip archive isn’t a backup strategy by itself.
For everyday extraction, stick with the built-in Extract All: it’s free, it’s already installed, and as of 24H2 it covers RAR and 7z too. Keep 7-Zip around only for passwords, split archives, or when you’re stuck on Windows 10 without native support. Once you’ve pulled what you need out of an old archive, delete the original zip if you don’t need it anymore — it’s an easy way to free up space on Windows 11.
Common questions
How do I open a password-protected zip on Windows 11?
File Explorer’s Extract All cannot handle encrypted archives on either 24H2 or 25H2, and it often fails without asking for a password. Install 7-Zip or WinRAR, open the file there, and enter the password when prompted.
Why is Extract All missing from my right-click menu?
Windows 11’s compact context menu hides it. Click “Show more options” (or press Shift+F10) to reveal Extract All, and confirm the file actually ends in a supported archive extension such as .zip, .rar, or .7z.
How do I open a .rar or .7z file on Windows 10?
Windows 10’s File Explorer only opens .zip on its own, so .rar and .7z files need a third-party tool like 7-Zip. Native RAR and 7z support arrived only in Windows 11 version 24H2 and later.
How do I extract a split archive like .7z.001 or .part1.rar?
Put every part in the same folder, then open the first part (.001 or .part1.rar) in 7-Zip or WinRAR, which reassembles the volumes automatically. File Explorer’s built-in extractor does not handle split or multi-volume archives.