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How to Open a RAR File (or Convert It to ZIP)

Can't open a .rar file? Convert RAR to ZIP so it opens with the tools already built into Windows and macOS, or unpack it with a free app.

· 2 min read · RunConvert Team

A RAR file is a compressed archive: many files packed into one. Windows and macOS can open ZIP files out of the box, but RAR often needs an extra app. The simplest fix is to convert the RAR to a ZIP.

Convert RAR to ZIP online

  1. Open the RAR to ZIP converter.
  2. Drop your RAR file onto the page, or click Choose Files.
  3. Click Convert and download the ZIP.

Then open the ZIP the usual way: double-click it on a Mac, or right-click it on Windows and choose Extract All.

Got a 7Z archive instead? 7Z to ZIP works the same way, and the archive converter handles TAR, GZ and other archive types too.

Password-protected archives

If the RAR file has a password, click the settings button next to the format and enter it before converting. You can also set a password for the new ZIP in the same place.

Unpack it with an app instead

If you open archives often, a free app is handy:

  • Windows 11: recent updates can open RAR files in File Explorer. Right-click the file and choose Extract All.
  • Windows 10 and older: install 7-Zip, then right-click the file and choose 7-Zip › Extract Here.
  • Mac: install The Unarchiver from the App Store and double-click the RAR file.

Stay safe with archives

Archives are a common way to pass on unwanted software. Only open archives from sources you trust, check what's inside before running anything, and be wary of programs (.exe, .bat, .scr) in an archive that was supposed to hold photos or documents.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about using RunConvert to convert your files.

RAR is an archive: one file that holds other files and folders, compressed to save space. It's common for downloads that contain many files.

Yes, if you know the password. Enter it in the settings next to the format before converting.

Multi-part archives need every part together to open, so download all the parts first and open them with an archive app such as 7-Zip, WinRAR or The Unarchiver.

An archive can contain anything, including harmful programs. Only open archives from people and sites you trust, and be careful with files ending in .exe, .bat or .scr inside them.

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