How to Use PeaZip to Compress Files

July 2024 (225 Words, 2 Minutes)

PeaZip is a free and open-source file archiver that supports a wide range of formats. This guide will walk you through the process of installing PeaZip and using it to compress files.

Table of Contents

• Installing PeaZip
• Basic Compression Operations
• Advanced Settings
• Frequently Asked Questions

Installing PeaZip

To get started with PeaZip, you need to download and install it. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the PeaZip official website.
2. Download the version compatible with your operating system (Windows, Linux, or portable).
3. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Basic Compression Operations

After installing PeaZip, you can begin compressing files. Here’s how:

1. Select Files or Folders: Open File Explorer and select the files or folders you want to compress.
2. Right-Click: Right-click on the selected items, choose “PeaZip” from the context menu, and then select “Add to archive…”.
3. Configure Compression Settings: In the “Archive” dialog, choose the archive format (e.g., .pea, .zip, .7z), set the compression level, and name your archive.
4. Start Compression: Click “OK” to begin the compression process. The compressed file will be created in the same location as the selected items.

Advanced Settings

PeaZip offers several advanced options to customize your compression:

• Archive Format: Choose from various formats like .pea, .zip, .7z, and more, depending on your needs.
• Compression Level: Adjust the compression level from “Store” to “Ultra” to balance between speed and compression ratio.
• Encryption: In the “Encryption” tab, you can set a password to secure the archive. Select “Set Password…” to enter your desired password and choose the encryption method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why can’t I open my PeaZip archive?

A1: Ensure you have a compatible decompression tool. PeaZip can handle most formats it creates, but if you encounter issues, try using PeaZip to extract the files.

Q2: How do I extract files from an archive?

A2: Right-click on the archive file, choose “PeaZip” from the context menu, and select “Extract Here” or “Extract to [folder name]” to decompress the files.

Q3: Does PeaZip support split-volume archives?

A3: Yes, PeaZip supports creating split-volume archives. You can specify the volume size in the “Split” section of the compression settings.

By following these instructions, you can effectively use PeaZip for managing your file compression tasks. For more information and features, visit the PeaZip official documentation.