What is a Self-Extracting Zip File?

A self-extracting Zip file is an executable file (.exe) that contains a Zip file and a small program to extract (unzip) the contents of the Zip file. Users can run (execute) a self-extracting Zip file just as they run any other program: just double click on the .exe file.

To "Zip" or "UnZip" a file is the common term used describe the process to compress or uncompress a file(s),  taking up less space on your hard disk, diskette or CD.

WinZip is shareware software which may be downloaded from the Internet http://www.winzip.com

How to Zip or Compress a folder and its subfolder (http://www.winzip.com/xdir.htm)

Method One

  1. Start WinZip
  2. Click on the NEW button (or from menu select File/New Archive)
  3. A  New Archive Window should pop up.  Navigate to the folder where the Zip file should be saved. (this can be a special directory such as C:Zipped or stored with the files you are zipping).
  4. In the File Name box select the name for the new file. Example: AshMesaCem.zip In the Show Types field select All Files(*.*) from the dropdown.  Click OK.
  5. At the top of the Add Window in the Add From Box, locate the file or
    6. multiple files that you want to Zip. Select it or them by putting the file name with its full path in the File Name Box. (Highlight the file(s) that you want)
    Example: C:\Unzipped\Pafboard.sam
  6. Action: should say Add (and Replace) Files
  7. Check Recurse Folders
  8. Uncheck Save Extra Folders Info
  9. Click the Add

Method Two (much easier and the one I use!)

  1. Double Click the WinZip Icon (or open from Start menu)
  2. In "My Computer" navigate to the location of the files you want to zip
    Example: C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\costones
  3. Highlight the files you want to Zip, drag them onto the WinZip window.

How to Unzip a File or Folder

  1. Double Click on the xxx.zip file.  It will open in WinZip
  2. Open "My Computer" - Navigate to the directory where you want the files.
  3. In WinZip, highlight the files you want to extract, drag them to the directory window. (easiest way to do it if doing a few files)
  4. If you want it to create the directory structure as it was in the original files, then in WinZip, click on Extract

In the Extract To: field either type or navigate your way to the directory you want to place the files.   With "All Files" checked it will extract every file to your pc.  Click Extract, wait for it to complete, and you're done.!  You can create a new folder if you wish, and you have the option of overwriting files or not.

Written and submitted by Betty Baker, excerpts of text about self extracting files copied from http://www.winzip.com  -  June 2005