How to Open Zip Files on MacBook Pro/Air

So, you’ve just bought your new Macbook Pro, and you’ve downloaded a ZIP file to your device. But how do you even open it with macOS?

Before opening ZIP files your MacBook Pro, here’s what you need to know.

What is a ZIP file?

A ZIP file is a compressed folder containing one or more files. It’s often used to make file transfers quicker and to save space.

The macOS, including on the MacBook Pro, has built-in support for handling ZIP files, which makes the process quick and painless.

Step-by-Step Guide to Opening ZIP Files on MacBook Pro

  1. Locate the ZIP File: First, find the ZIP file you want to open. It could be in your ‘Downloads’ folder or somewhere else, depending on where you saved it.
  2. Double-Click to Extract: The simplest way to open a ZIP file on a MacBook Pro is by double-clicking it. This action triggers the Archive Utility tool built into macOS, which automatically extracts the contents of the ZIP file.
  3. Check the Extracted Folder: After extraction, a new folder with the same name as the ZIP file appears, usually in the same location as the ZIP file. This folder contains all the uncompressed files.

Alternative Methods for Opening ZIP Files

If you prefer not to use the built-in Archive Utility or need additional features like password protection or handling different compression formats, third-party applications like Unzip One, The Unarchiver or WinZip for Mac can be useful.

These applications offer more control over the extraction process and support a wider range of file formats.

Opening ZIP files on your MacBook Pro correctly is simple enough once you know how. By following these steps and tips, you can ensure a smooth and trouble-free experience with your MacBook Pro.

Author

Ed

Full-time writer, Apple fanboy and macOS supremacist. Currently running: 16" Macbook Pro w/ 64GB RAM & M1 Max. Already wants to upgrade to the M3 😫😭

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