WinZip is a file compression utility for Windows that allows you to reduce the size of large files, and archive different files into one big file.
Traditionally the first choice when it comes to compressing and uncompressing files, WinZip is one of the most popular downloads of all time. Despite the fact that its competitors have caught up somewhat, it remains a simple way to archive programs and reduce file sizes.
Much of WinZip's success has been down to its simplicity. From the outset, the program prompts you to choose between Classic mode and Wizard mode. The wizard is great for beginners, although even the classic interface is easily negotiated, giving you instant access to a range of features such as compression ratios, password-protection and a Favorites list.
While archiving files in WinZip is quick and easy, you can't help but thinking that the program has lost some ground on its competitors. For instance, the compression rates aren’t as high as they are in WinRAR, and you can only save files in Zip format rather than RAR, ISO or JAR.
Nevertheless, WinZip performs its function well, helping you archive files quickly and effectively.
Pros
Easy-to-use interface
Quick compression and decompression
Cons
Only handles Zip compression
Not compatible with as many formats as WinRAR
Nag screen
WinZip 17 file compression software lets you zip, protect and share files across all the ways we connect today – the cloud, social media and email.
With its powerful compression and encryption capabilities, WinZip 17 dramatically improves file sharing with direct integration to your accounts on SkyDrive®, Dropbox, Google Drive™, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn®. Built-in productivity features include converting files to PDF, adding watermarks and resizing photos while zipping. With a redesigned, more intuitive interface, WinZip 17 makes it easy to find the features you need, when you need them.
Key features:
• Manage and share from the cloud: With integration to your cloud accounts, easily see and manage your files directly from within WinZip. You can also share links to files in the cloud from your own email.
• Secure sharing in the cloud: Zip and encrypt before saving files on SkyDrive, Dropbox and Google Drive for worry-free sharing.
• Zip and share to social media: Use the integrated ZipShare™ service to broadcast any file format to Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn®.
• Updated interface: Context-sensitive ribbon toolbars display the tools you need for zipping and unzipping, encrypting, sharing and more.
• Send larger files by email: With ZipSend, the integrated files delivery service, send large files and folders directly from your email without worrying about delivery failure and bounce backs.
WinZip 17 is designed for anyone who wants to zip, protect and share anywhere. With over 1 billion downloads, WinZip is the first choice in file compression. WinZip apps are available for Windows 8, Mac, iOS and Android.
"Zip it up"
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9.0
usability10
Stability10
Installation8
Functionality7
Appearance9
Winzip is the defacto app if u need to compress large files into a more manageable Zip file. The wizard is helpful in getting beginners to learn to use it. It's got extra features to secure your files like encrypting, encoding and scanning. You can even create executables.
The only problem with Winzip, and it's far from minor, is that it is essentially limited to Zip files. For that only reason, I much prefer using Winrar, because RAR has a better compression ratio and because it handles all types of compression formats, not just Zip.
Laws concerning the use of this software vary from country to country. We do not encourage or condone the use of this program if it is in violation of these laws.
