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How to Compress Files
How to Compress Files

How to compress files to save space for easy transfer and storage.

Updated over a week ago

Compressing files is a handy way to reduce their size, which makes them easier to store or share. The process differs slightly between a PC (Windows) and a Mac (macOS), but both are straightforward. Let's go through the steps for each:

On a PC (Windows)

  1. Locate the Files/Folder: First, find the files or folder you want to compress.

  2. Right-Click: Once you've located the files or folder, right-click on it.

  3. Select 'Send to': In the context menu that appears, hover over "Send to."

  4. Choose 'Compressed (zipped) folder': Click on "Compressed (zipped) folder" from the submenu. Windows will then create a new compressed (ZIP) file in the same location.

  5. Rename (Optional): You can rename this new ZIP file if needed by right-clicking on it and selecting "Rename."

Windows file compression menu

On a Mac (macOS)

  1. Find the Files/Folder: Locate the files or folder you wish to compress on your Mac.

  2. Right-Click (or Control-Click): Right-click on the files or folder. If your mouse doesn't support right-clicking, hold down the 'Control' key on your keyboard and click the file/folder.

  3. Select 'Compress': In the menu that appears, click on "Compress [file/folder name]."

  4. Automatic Compression: macOS will automatically create a ZIP file in the same location as the original files/folder.

  5. Rename (Optional): If you want to change the name of the ZIP file, simply click on the file name and enter the desired name.

Mac file compression menu

Tips

  • Multiple Files: On both systems, you can compress multiple files by selecting them all (click and drag or use Ctrl/Cmd + click to select multiple files), then right-clicking and following the same steps.

  • File Types: Most file types can be compressed, but remember that some files, like JPEG images and MP4 videos, are already compressed and might not see much size reduction.

  • Decompression: To access the files later, you'll need to 'unzip' or 'extract' them. This can be done by right-clicking the ZIP file and choosing "Extract All" on Windows or simply double-clicking the ZIP file on a Mac.

Remember, there's no harm in trying this out as the original files/folders will remain untouched. It's a great way to save space or make file sharing easier!

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