What Does it Mean to a Extract a File?

Extracting files means that you are decompressing/uncompressing files from a compressed form to their natural (original) form.

For example, you can compress files (make them smaller) by “zipping” them (using a ZIP compression program). When you extract the compressed files from the compressed files, the files are restored to their original size and file type.

File compression is an incredibly important part of the digital workspace. We can send more data at faster speeds than has ever been possible, which is why ZIP files are such a popular tool for businesses all across the world. 

Steps to Extract or Unzipped the File

When you extract files from a zipped folder, a new folder with the same name is created which contains the files. The compressed (zipped) version also remains.

  1. Right-click the zipped folder saved to your computer. 
  2. Choose “Extract All..” (an extraction wizard will begin).
  3. Click [Next >].
  4. Click [Browse…] and navigate to where you would like to save the files.
  5. Click [Next >].
  6. Click [Finish].

How to Unzip File?

  • Right click on .zip file that you want to unzip (uncompress), and click on “Extract All” in context menu.
  • In “Extract Compressed (Zipped) Folders” dialog, enter or browse folder path where you want files to be extracted.
  • Check “Show extracted files when complete” checkbox to open extracted folder after zip extraction is complete.
  • Click on “Extract” button to start the extraction.

Is Unzip and Extract the Same Thing?

Unzipping a file with other zip programs Here, I have right-clicked on the zipped file and selected “Extract to here.” “Extract” is the same thing as “unzip.” Windows also sometimes places “Extract files” links in toolbars which may be useful to you.

Frequently Asked Question About Extract a File

Is it okay to Delete Zip files After Extracting?

You can safely delete the zip file and the files that were extracted will remain on your computer. You can see this for yourself by first making a copy of the zip file, then extracting the files. Then delete the zip file itself.

Can’t Delete a Zip File?

Go to C: > Create a folder called “windows. old” Cut and past the zip file in that folder. Run disk clean up as an admin; and select “previous windows installation” that should take of that zip file. As long as you can move it in the folder.