Tips to open RAR file
Can't open the RAR file? You are not the only one. Thousands of users face similar problems every day. Below you will find tips on how to open RAR files as well as a list of programs that support RAR files.
RAR file extension
| File Name |
WinRAR Compressed Archive |
| File Developer |
Eugene Roshal |
| File Category |
Compressed Files |
The RAR file is supported on 3 operating systems. Depending on your operating system, you may need different software to handle the RAR files. Below is a summary of the number of programs that support and open the RAR file on each system platform.
What is RAR file?
The .RAR file is an archive file. It is a fairly popular file compression format. It is associated with the WinRAR software. Uses a proprietary compression algorithm. Currently, files in this format can not only be unpacked by other applications, but also created. In case the .RAR archive is divided into several files, they take names from .R00 to .RXX where XX is the number of the next package. WinRAR is known for a trial period after which the software can still be used.
How to open RAR file?
The most common problem when using WinRAR Compressed Archive is that a specific RAR is not associated with the program. Thus, when you open RAR, the program selection wizard or some other program starts. This can be quickly resolved by following the instructions below.
The first thing you should do is just "doubleclick" on the RAR file icon you want to open. If the operating system has an appropriate application to support it and there is also an association between the file and the program, the file should be opened.
Step 1. Install WinZip
The first step is to check if the computer has the WinZip program installed. The easiest method is to use the system search engine by entering the program name WinZip in it. In the absence of an appropriate program, its installation in the vast majority of cases will fix the problem. Below is a list of programs that support the file RAR.
Programs to open RAR file
Remember to download programs supporting RAR files only from verified and safe sources. We suggest using the websites of software developers.
Step 2. Create association of WinZip with RAR files
If, despite the installed application, the RAR file does not start in the WinZip application, you must create a file association. This option is available from the level of Properties of a specific file available in the context menu. The displayed window will contain information about the program that supports this type of file. Changes can be made using the "Change" button. If there is no software on the list, simply select "Browse" and manually select the directory where the application is installed. Checking the "Always use the selected program ..." box will permanently associate the RAR file with the WinZip program.
Step 3. Update WinZip to the latest version
If, despite the association of the WinZip program with the WinRAR Compressed Archive file, the file still does not open, check the program version and possibly update it to the newest version. This can be done using the application (if it provides such options) or from the WinZip Computing, S.L. website and install the latest version.
Step 4. Check for the following problems with the RAR file
Of course, it may happen that despite the above steps, the file still does not work. This could be due to the file itself, the cleanest issues are:
The RAR file may be unusually small compared to the original file. This is most often caused by a problem while downloading the RAR file. The only repair option is to download the file again.
The computer may have fallen victim to a computer virus or hacker. A quick virus scan using an up-to-date antivirus program should clear up any doubts. Some antivirus vendors also provide free online scanners. For the best results, we will scan the entire operating system, not just our RAR file. However, remember that not every infected RAR file can be recovered, so it is important to take care of regular backups.
A typical compatibility error - the program does not support the older version of the RAR file. Help should be sought from the software developer, as they usually recommend using free file converters or installing an older version of the program.
There can be many reasons for this. Repairing is very dependent on the file type. Some programs offer the ability to automatically repair RAR file corruption. The easiest way is to restore the file from a backup, if there is one, or contact Eugene Roshal
The program indicates that the file is encrypted or corrupted. The encrypted RAR files cannot be played on other computers than the one on which they were encrypted, they must be decrypted before using on another device.
Some operating systems do not allow file operations in certain locations, eg in system directories or directly on the system drive. The problem is only writing to the file, not reading it. It is best to move RAR to a different directory.
This problem usually affects more complex files. You may find that another program you are using is preventing you from working with the file. Running programs (including those in the background) should be verified. Sometimes it is necessary to wait a while before referencing the RAR file again. Antivirus programs or a backup being made may lock the file for a while without the user's knowledge. If the problem persists, restart the machine.
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