Internet Tech Blog

From ZIP file to another compression formats, compression software became a daily need for computer users. Here are five compression software that you can choose.

Here are five compression software that can be an option for computer users:

1. 7-Zip
7-Zip is a software that can be downloaded for free and is Open Source. This software is very simple to give this much ability to compress or decompress (extraction) files. Looks too simple to make people might not like, but on the other hand, many people like this simple software.

Operating System: Windows and Linux
Price: Free, Open Source
Download at: 7-Zip.org (http://www.7-zip.org/)

2. IZArc
IZArc is a file compression software that supports most archive formats. IZArc (read: i zi ark) is interesting because it has a portable version, simply stored in Flashdisk and run without having to install. This free software is not Open Source and are welcomed to receive donations from users.

Operating System: Windows
Price: Free
Download at: IZArc.org (http://www.izarc.org/)

3. WinRAR
WinRAR is a popular compression software. Existing since 1993 and is the first search results on Google for “RAR”, LifeHacker mentions WinRAR as the first choice for most users. But the software should be paid (USD 29) for the license. If you do not want to pay, WinRAR can still be used but the ‘annoying’ screen will appear each used.

Operating System: Windows
Price: Shareware
Download at: RARLab.com (http://www.rarlab.com/)

4. PeaZip
Perhaps the equivalent of 7-Zip, the main difference is PeaZip have more interesting view (main application window, icon, etc). PeaZip is also available in the portable form so that it more flexible.

Operating System: Windows and Linux
Price: Free, Open Source
Download at: PeaZip SourcForge.net (http://peazip.sourceforge.net/)

5. The Unarchiver
For Mac OS X users, compression tools that are available by default may be enough. The device is called Unarchiver (bundled in Mac OS X), free and can handle multiple formats archives – not like the default Windows that only capable to handle ZIP format. But Unarchiver only as a file opener, to create a file compression format with a non-ZIP Mac OS X users will need to use other software.

Operating System: Mac OS X
Price: Free
Download at: (available with Mac OS X)

Do you have a favorite compression software that does not appear here? Note in comment. Gratitute also if you have ideas for software in the next download info category.