This article explains what a JAR file is, the different ways you can open it depending on how you want to use it, and how to convert it to an EXE or ZIP file.

A file with the .JAR extension is a Java archive file used to store Java programs and games in a single file. Some contain files that allow them to run as standalone applications, and others contain program libraries that other programs can use.

JAR files are ZIP-compressed and often store things like CLASS files, a manifest file, and application resources like images, audio clips, and security certificates. Because they can contain hundreds or even thousands of files in a compressed format, they are easy to share and move around.

Java-compatible mobile devices may use this format for game files, and some web browsers store themes and add-ons in the JAR format.