


If you find yourself with a RAR file extension unable to open it, that’s where WinZip comes in. RAR files can be split up into multi-volume archives and the compression lets multiple files condense down into a single small archive that’s easy to transfer. The archive generally contains multiple files, although it can be just a single file, and you’ll need to extract the files from the archive in order to use them. The RAR file format is short for Roshal Archive Compressed file, and is a compressed archive from WinRAR. If you’re familiar with ZIP files, you’ll get to grips with RAR files in no time as the concept is fairly similar.

It also automatically encrypts any files you compress with 256-bit password protection so you can transfer sensitive files with the peace of mind.Rated 5 stars by CNET What is a RAR file extension?Ī RAR file extension is something you might come across sooner or later as you transfer files for business use. WinRAR is available in over 100 languages, from Arabic to English and Vietnamese. Older versions may include security vulnerabilities, especially on older operating systems, so always make sure to have the latest version installed. Updates for WinRAR are frequent too, with version 6 being the most recent one. WinRAR 64-bit handles RAR, CAB, ZIP, ARJ, TAR, LZH, GZip, ISO, UUE, Z, BZIP2, and 7-Zip file formats. If you have a business, however, the full version includes a few extra features that’ll likely come in handy such as, multi-volume compression and self-extracting files. So why pay for it? If you’re using WinRAR 64-bit for personal use, there’s no real need. WinRAR technically comes with a 40-day free trial period, but in reality, you can use it for free indefinitely. Some of these handle slightly different file types, but for most people, WinRAR is sufficient for most needs. There are plenty of decent alternatives to WinRAR around, such as 7-Zip, PeaZip, and WinZip. These options are accompanied by WinRAR’s red, blue, and green logo of three books bound together with a belt. Once it’s installed, or if it’s already on your PC, you’ll find it offers multiple options once you right-click on a compatible file. If you need to install it, you’ll have to run the winrar.exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.
