While Windows does have a built-in compression tool, it’s limited to reading and creating ZIP files.
7-Zip is a useful alternative for those who need additional compression and extraction capabilities.
It’s licensed under the GNU Lesser General Public License and can be freely shared and distributed.
Can be used in a commercial environment.
Supports both a graphical user interface and a command-line interface.
One-click installer; setup doesn’t have a go at install extra software.
Long list of language support.
Favorite folders for easy access.
No portable option available from the developer.
7-Zip Features
This program is my all-time favorite file unzipper.
It integrates seamlessly with the Windows Shell, making it straightforward to extract archives by right-clicking them.
Using File Explorer can speed up the decompression process.
While the official 7-Zip website doesn’t include a portable setup, you cangrab one at PortableApps.com.
If you service friends' computers, using 7-Zip Portable from a flash drive will definitely come in handy.
