[Basic] why do you need to zip a file?

Zip is a simple and common process to reduce the size of a files or collection of file. As a result of the zip it will create a new file smaller than the original file or the total size of the files. When you zip a large file it reduced up to 80% of size of the original file size. However some of graphic files can be compressed to only a few,because it's already used compression. Also compression is not highly effective for small files.

Simple steps to zip a file using Microsoft windows XP (or Windows Vista) standard Zip File
1. Right click on the folder which you need to zip
You can select a group of files you need to zip and right click as well.
2. select "send to" and click on "Compressed (zipped) Folder.
3. then you can see the new zip file with the same filename.zip

steps to unzip a file
1. right click on the file which you want to unzip and select extract or extract here.
2. then you can see the extracted file with the same name.

advantages of zipping files.
1.when you email a file it reduces the time to attach and transfer
2.when you download ,it will be faster
3.it will save your space of the hard disk
4.Easy to send a collection of files via email, ftp or through websites like yousendit as you only need to send one file instead of couple of files.

There are lot of free and paid software to compress files. What would be the best software to use. It depends on your requirement.
For example if you are trying to send some files to your friend.

1. You need to consider about the compatibility.
That means if you used really good compression tool but if your friends does not have it your friend will not be able to unzip the file. You always need to use a standard (common) and better file compress tool to zip your files.

2. Mention the Software name and the link to download the software. So in any case your friend does not have the software he can install it.

If you are planning to archive your files and save space. Always better to use software that compress the files well and you need to make sure compression process did not corrupt your files. Before you delete the original file unzip the sipped files and randomly check the files are in good condition.

Softwares Available for Compress files

WinZip Download WinZip

WinRar Download WinRAR

What do you use to compressfiles?