How to Compress Computer Files

It is necessary to compress computer files in order to create back-ups or facilitate simple transfer of them through email. It is a very simple procedure to compress computer files even though there are small differences depending on the OS being used.

Instructions

• Choose the file, folder or group of files that want to be compressed. Most compression software will compress chosen files collectively to create a zip folder even though they have not been collected into a single folder or "archive."

• Choose "Send to Compressed (zipped) Folder and the .zip file will show on the desktop.

• Control clicks the highlighted group if using Mac OSX. Choose the "Create Archive of 'File Name'" option from the options that show, and the .zip file will in a while show.

• Download a zip utility if using an older version of Windows. A lot of are available, with some freeware.

• Install the zip software.

• Choose files to be compressed and right-click on them. Choose the quick link to the zip utility, and follow any prompts that may show.

• Move the zip folder to the preferred place, such as an email attachment or onto a back-up disk, after it has been created. The original files will still be on the computer and completely unchanged because software to compress computer files builds and compresses copies of the original data.