7-Zip Download: Free File Compression and Archive Tool
7-Zip 26.05 · for Windows and Linux
Developer: Igor Pavlov (opens in a new tab)
- Windows
- Linux
The download link points to the program’s official source; the file is not hosted on this site. Link address: 7-zip.org
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7-Zip is a free, open-source archiver developed by Igor Pavlov. The latest version is 26.05, released on October 21, 2026; it has a graphical interface on Windows and a command-line version for Linux.
Opening a RAR file someone emailed you, or bundling hundreds of photos into a single file, does not require paid software. 7-Zip handles both for free, and installing it takes less than a minute.
Key features
- Its own 7z format: Using the LZMA and LZMA2 methods, it usually produces smaller archives than ZIP.
- Opens a long list of formats: ZIP, RAR, TAR, GZ, ISO, CAB and dozens more.
- Encryption: 7z and ZIP archives can be password-protected with AES-256.
- Right-click menu: In Windows File Explorer, right-click a file and choose “Add to archive” or “Extract here”.
How to download and install
- The Download button opens the official download page on 7-zip.org.
- If your PC is 64-bit (most are these days), pick the file in the “64-bit Windows x64” row.
- Run the installer and click “Install”; nothing else needs configuring.
Good to know
Most of 7-Zip is licensed under the GNU LGPL. The RAR extraction code comes under the unRAR license, which does not allow creating RAR archives. The program has no ads. Before running any unfamiliar .exe from inside an archive, scan it with your antivirus first.
Pros
- Tiny download and quick install
- High compression ratio with the 7z format
- Ad-free and free for commercial use too
Cons
- Very bare-bones interface
- Cannot create RAR archives
Frequently Asked Questions
Can 7-Zip open RAR files?
Yes, it extracts RAR archives. Its license does not allow creating new RAR archives, so use 7z or ZIP for that instead.
Is 7-Zip free for commercial use?
Yes. You can use 7-Zip at work and on company computers for free, with no registration or license key.
7-ZipOpen source
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