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A RAR file extension (a file ending in .rar) is a type of format that archives and compresses documents and executables.

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The RAR file format was introduced by Eugene Roshal, which is where the format got its moniker (Roshal ARchive).  The RAR format is used by businesses and individuals to compress and save files for distribution over the Internet or in email communications. The most common software application used to create and open RAR files is WinRAR. The software is available as shareware and distributed by RARLAB. A RAR file format is similar to the more popular ZIP file format, but RAR archives have some significant advantages over its competitor.

Uses for a RAR Archive

Like Winzip, WinRAR creates a container file, which is used to hold each executable and document. However, RAR files have the advantage of separating larger files into smaller pieces, segmenting the archive into smaller parts for people who have slower Internet connections. This technique is useful for software developers and application websites that allow users to download installation files. As software evolves to accommodate more advanced technology, installation files can amass into hundreds of megabytes. These large installation files may take users hours to download, and it can be impossible for a user with a slow Internet connection. Using a RAR application, a company can segment the archive into small, 50 megabyte parts and allow users to download the RAR files one-by-one.

Another benefit of a RAR archive is its ability to more efficiently compress files into smaller storage units.  RAR files also have repair capabilities, and users can encrypt sensitive data using the latest RAR application.

For businesses that need better compression and control over archive files, RAR is more beneficial than a ZIP file. Although these archives may take longer to decompress, it provides a smaller file for Internet downloads. Download the latest RAR archive application to implement encryption for better security.

How do I open a .rar file?

What are RAR Files?

Before getting into opening .rar files, let’s briefly discuss what .rar files are. These files are compressed “data containers.” You’ve likely heard of “zip” files, right? RAR files are similar. For example, let’s say that your boss asks you to send over all of the product photos that you shot earlier in the day. Well, we all know that photo files are huge and sending large quantities of huge files via e-mail can take forever, especially on dial-up. Rather than sending the files as huge, individual attachments, you could use a file compression utility to compress and bundle the files into one dramatically smaller RAR file.

The problem with doing something like this involves the other party who may not be able to open the RAR file after receiving it. Just as you are left scratching your head wondering what to do, so too might anyone else who receives a .rar attachment.

The RAR format is a little different than the ZIP format in that it has additional features including AES-128 encryption, multi-volume archives, multimedia and text mode, and even recovery features.

Opening RAR Files  

Fortunately, RAR files can be opened using several different utilities. RAR is the format that is used with the WinRAR archiver which is available from RARlab.com for about $30 US. Depending on your needs, you may be able to get away with using the trial version to open this single file.

If you are looking for a free download to open file extension RAR, other programs with RAR compatibility include: Bitzipper (a free 30-day trial is offered), 7-Zip (which is open source software), and Alpha Zip (free trial version is available). If you only need to open a RAR file here and there, then one of the free versions should be sufficient. However, if you want to be able to create your own .rar files and use the advanced features that this format offers, choose your utility carefully. For instance, Alpha Zip opens .rar files but it cannot create them.