Here's how to ZIP files and save space on Windows, Mac, Chromebook, Linux: A complete step-by-step guide

Zipping files is an effective way to reduce file sizes, making it easier to store and share multiple files. Whether you are using a Windows PC, Mac, Chromebook, or Linux computer, the process of zipping files is straightforward and helps you optimize storage space on your device.

How to zip files on Windows?

Drag a box around the files or hold Ctrl and click each one individually.
Right-click one of the files, go to Send to, and select Compressed (zipped) folder.

Now, a ZIP file will show up, rename it accordingly and you are done!

How to zip files on Mac?

Drag a box around the files or hold Command and click each one individually.
Keep holding Command and click one of the files and choose Compress.
A ZIP file will appear containing all the compressed data, rename the file as desired.

How to zip files on Chromebook?

Drag a box around the files or hold Ctrl and click each one individually.
Right-click one of the files and select Zip selection.
A ZIP file will appear containing all the compressed data, rename the file as desired.

How to zip files on Linux?

This is a bit complex, hence, pay utmost attention and follow the steps:

• First, open a command window using Ctrl + Alt + T
• In the command window, type: zip [name of the ZIP file].zip [files to be zipped]
• For example, to zip a text file named "sun" and an image named "moon" into a ZIP file called "solar system," type: zip solar system.zip sun.txt moon.jpg

FAQs

Q1. What are some popular compressing softwares?
A1. Popular compressing softwares are WINZIP, WINRAR, etc.

Q2. When were ZIP files introduced first?
A2. ZIP files were introduced first on February 14, 1989.