Windows 11: Create and Safely Extract ZIP Files with Built-in Tools
Create a ZIP file using built-in tools and safely extract it. Select the files you want to combine in Explorer, then right-click > [Compress to ZIP file] or select [See more options] > [Send to] > [Compress (zip format) folder]. Open the ZIP and check that the necessary files are available and that the extracted file can be opened with a standard app.
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Who this guide is for and what to prepare
- Users who want to streamline daily operations with Windows 11
- Users who want to try out the feature in a way that allows them to restore the settings.
What you need
- Save the file you are working on and try it with test data that does not include personal information.
- Encrypted archives may not be handled by built-in tools. Don't open executable files with disguised extensions; check content and confidentiality before and after sending
Purpose and prerequisites
Create a ZIP file using built-in tools and safely extract it. Select the files you want to combine in Explorer, then right-click > [Compress to ZIP file] or select [See more options] > [Send to] > [Compress (zip format) folder]. Open the ZIP and check that the necessary files are available and that the extracted file can be opened with a standard app.
Encrypted archives may not be handled by built-in tools. Don't open executable files with disguised extensions; check content and confidentiality before and after sending
Configure the feature
Select the files you want to combine in Explorer, then right-click > [Compress to ZIP file] or select [See more options] > [Send to] > [Compress (zip format) folder].
- Select the files you want to combine in Explorer and right-click > [Compress to ZIP file] or [See more options] > [Send to] > [Compress (zip format) folder].
Try it out and see the results
Give the created ZIP a meaningful name. Right-click the received ZIP > [Extract all], select the destination, and press [Extract]. Open the ZIP and check that the necessary files are available and that the extracted file can be opened with a standard app.
If you want to combine multiple files into one ZIP, hold down Ctrl and click on them, or combine them into a single folder first. After creation, open the ZIP and check the recorded file name. Instead of directly editing the ZIP you receive, right-click and select "Extract all" to specify the save location, and then open the document from the extracted folder to find the save location.
- Give the created ZIP a meaningful name. Right-click the received ZIP > [Extract all], select the destination, and press [Extract].
- Open the ZIP and check that the necessary files are available and that the extracted file can be opened with a standard app.
Turn it off and restore the previous setup
- Delete only unnecessary ZIP files. The original file is not automatically deleted. If overwriting occurs, check the recycle bin or backup.
Limitations and requirements
- Encrypted archives may not be handled by built-in tools. Don't open executable files with disguised extensions; check content and confidentiality before and after sending
- If the settings are fixed on an organization-managed PC, check with the administrator instead of using unofficial methods to circumvent the policy.
Frequently asked questions
Will the original files be deleted if I create a ZIP?
A standard compression operation creates a ZIP leaving the original files intact. Deleting the original file after compression is another decision.
Can I create a password protected ZIP?
This standard feature procedure does not address the creation of encrypted ZIPs. If encryption is required, check the featureality of the compatible software and the compatibility of the receiving side.
Official sources and verification date
Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.