7-Zip 9.20 / 9.30 Alpha

There was a time when computer applications were few and a specific tool was used for each task one wanted to perform, such as image viewing, archiving files or converting videos. Nowadays however, the market has a lot more alternatives for each area, and when it comes to archivers, 7-Zip is definitely an app worth taking into consideration.

Installing it is a simple procedure and it all takes only a few seconds since you have to deal with such a light package. The interface is the same as the ones we’ve seen in other compression tools, but 7-Zip also includes a powerful file manager, so browsing the files stored in archives is really simple.

The tool supports most archive formats out there, including RAR, ZIP, TAR, GZ, LZH, LZA, ARJ and ISO, but it also comes with its very own extension, namely 7z.

You will be amazed by how fast 7-Zip compressed and decompresses files and the fact that it automatically places a bunch of options in the Windows context menu makes the whole thing a lot easier, while also saving a lot of time when it comes to managing archives. Those who do not like to have a cluttered Windows context menu can easily remove the 7-zip related items whenever they please.

As expected, compression is a smooth operation and in case you really want to save some space on your hard drives, 7-Zip might come in very handy. Just right click the files you want to compress, select the function you need and you’re ready to go.

A feature not typically encountered in file compressors is the checkum calculator, meant to help you verify the integrity of any downloaded package. The Benchmark function also comes in handy when you want to test the performance of your computer.

All in all, 7-Zip is the compression tool that you need to install if you are not willing to pay for a license for one the other similar apps on the market. It is freeware and works with so many formats that it you are bound to be satisfied with it.