This article explains what a 7Z file is and how to open one on your computer to access the files inside. We'll also look at how to convert one to another archive format such as ZIP, ISO, RAR, etc.

A file with the 7Z file extension is a 7-Zip compressed file. It's kind of like a folder on your computer, except it actually behaves like a file.

Both a folder and a 7Z file can store one or more files, and even other folders. Unlike folders, however, this is just a single file with the .7Z extension that serves as a compressed archive of the data.

You're likely to encounter only one when you download bundled files from the Internet, such as computer software programs, photo albums, collections of documents… basically, anything that is best downloaded in a smaller, compressed form.