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.

WinZip offers two versions of our Self-Extractor program. WinZip Self-Extractor Personal Edition, which is included within WinZip, and WinZip Self-Extractor 3 which is sold separately. For information on the differences between WinZip Self-Extractor Personal Edition and the full WinZip Self-Extractor 3 please click here.

What are the Advantages to Self-Extracting Zip Files?

• Self-extracting Zip files are ideal for electronic file distribution because they:
  • Optionally run a "setup" or "installation" program, which may be included by the developer when the files are decompressed. (Note: Available in WinZip Self-Extractor 3 only).
  • Provide easy distribution of one or more compressed files.
  • Include sensitive information protected with 128- and 256-bit AES encryption. (Note: Available in WinZip Self-Extractor 3 only).
  • Create smaller files with PPMd and Enhanced Deflate compressed Zip files. (Note: Available in WinZip Self-Extractor 3 only).
  • Designate custom high resolution icons for your Zip file (Windows 2000, Windows Server 2003, Windows XP and Windows Vista). (Note: Available in WinZip Self-Extractor 3.1 only).
  • Can contain multiple compressed files, minimizing download time and ensuring that important files do not become separated from the rest of the package.
  • Allow the receiver to use a familiar Windows interface to extract (unzip) files, without owning or knowing how to use a separate unzip utility, making them ideal for inexperienced users.
• Any folder information in the Zip file is automatically restored, including empty folders.
• When a self-extracting Zip file created by WinZip Self-Extractor is run, a dialog box is displayed. This dialog box makes it easy for the user to change the "Unzip To" folder and other options before extracting the files.