Steps to Compress Files using 7-Zip

  1. Open the 7-Zip application, then access the files you want to compress. Select those files and click Add. Make sure to put the files in the same directory.
    This image shows you where to locate the Add button in 7-Zip.
  2. In the Add to Archive window, manage the settings as desired. The following is the breakdown of the main parameters:
    This image shows you the Add to Archive window where you get to choose how you want to compress your files. In short, this image explains how to use 7-Zip to compress files.


    • Archive — contains the name of your archive file.
    • Archive format — lets you choose the file’s format. For the best compression rate, choose 7z.
    • Compression level — the compression time increases with the compression level. The presets range from Store (fastest compression) to Ultra (slowest compression time with the most space saved).
    • Compression method — select the LZMA option as the best method for handling the compression process.
    • Split to volumes, bytes — lets you split the archive into parts.
    • Encryption — allows you to secure the archive with a password.
  3. Once you’re done, click OK. The archive file should appear in the same location as the original files.