If you are a Mac user and need to send large files via email or other means, creating zip files can come in handy. Compressing a file or folder is a fast and effective way to reduce file size without compromising its contents. In this tutorial, I will show you some easy ways to zip and unzip files on your Mac.

What is a zip file and why is it used?

A ZIP file is a zip and compressed file. It combines one or more files into one smaller file for easy storage and sharing.

Zip files are widely used to store and transfer files via email or other platforms on the Internet, thus reducing the time and bandwidth required to transfer huge amounts of data. In addition, they can be used for backup or to reduce disk space by storing files in a compressed format.

Keep in mind that once the zip file is decompressed, the original files or folders are restored to their original format and can be used regularly.

Benefits of using a zip file on Mac

  • Compressed files take up less space on your Mac than the original file.
  • Zip files are smaller and upload and download faster.
  • Zip files can be used to group related files into a single archive, making it easier to manage and find files.
  • By adding password protection, you can provide an extra degree of security to compressed files or folders that contain sensitive information.
  • Zip files can serve as a backup copy of important files and folders, making it easier to recover data in the event of data loss or system failure.
  • Different operating systems can open and extract these compressed files, making it easier to share files.

How to compress a file on Mac

  1. Find the files you need in the Finder.
  2. Select all the files you want to archive.
  3. Right-click on the files.
  4. Select Compress.

    Compress files on your Mac using the Finder app

Congratulations, you have successfully compressed the file. The ZIP file will now appear next to the original file.

Also, if you are compressing a single file, select the file → right click and select “compress filename”.

Zip files on Mac using a native utility

  1. Run Spotlight (cmd + space).
  2. Find the backup tool and run it.

    Find an archive tool in Spotlight on Mac

  3. Select the desired files in the Finder.
  4. Drag the selected files to the Archiver icon (the green folder with a string) in the Dock.

    Compress files on Mac with zip tool

  5. The Archive tool will compress your files, and when it’s complete, it will start appearing with the original file in the Finder.

Keep in mind that if you drag and drop a group of files into the archiver, the application will create separate zip files for each folder.

How to decompress files on Mac

Decompressing these files is a simple task that can be done in several ways. You can find all the methods for this listed below.

  • Double-click: Go to the compressed file → double-click to decompress.
  • Right-click: Go to the file → right-click on it → select Open.
    Alternatively, you can right-click on the file → choose “Open With” → click on “Archive Tool”.

    Right-click to decompress files on your Mac

  • Zip Utility: Run Zip Utility → find the ZIP file → drag it to the green zip folder icon in the dock menu.

Frequently Asked Questions Does Mac have a built-in zip utility?

Yes, the Mac has a built-in archiving tool known as the Archive Tool and it’s built into every macOS.

Can I decompress BIN files on a Mac?

Yes, you can usually decompress the BIN file. Bin files are commonly known as binary files that contain a variety of data, including disk image, firmware update, and other types of program files.

Why can’t I extract files on my Mac?

It is possible to decompress files on a Mac, but sometimes this can cause problems. The root cause of the problem could be that the file has been corrupted or damaged, or that the file is password protected.

an end…

Wasn’t it easy to zip and unzip files on a Mac? However, apart from the previously mentioned methods, you can also use Mac terminal to compress and save files more efficiently. If you encounter any other issues with your Apple devices, feel free to leave them in the comments and I’ll do my best to find a solution.

Read more:

  • How to zip and unzip files on iPhone and iPad
  • How to compress PDF files on Mac
  • How to use the Files app on your iPhone or iPad
  • Compress video on iPhone and iPad