RAR facts for kids

RAR is a special type of file format used in computers. Think of it like a digital box that can hold many files and folders inside. It helps make files smaller, fix errors if something goes wrong, and even split large files into smaller parts.

The name RAR comes from its creator, Eugene Roshal. It stands for Roshal ARchive. Today, a company called Win.RAR GmbH manages the license for this format.

What is a RAR File?

A RAR file is a type of archive file. This means it's a single file that contains one or more other files and folders. People use RAR files for a few main reasons:

Making Files Smaller

RAR files use data compression. This is like squishing a big sponge into a smaller size. It makes the files take up less space on your computer. Smaller files are faster to send over the internet or save on a flash drive.

Protecting Your Data

RAR files can also help with error recovery. Imagine you're downloading a file and your internet connection glitches. Sometimes, parts of the file can get corrupted. RAR files have special features that can help fix these small errors. This means your files are more likely to open correctly, even if there was a problem during transfer.

Splitting Big Files

Sometimes, a file is too big to send in one piece or fit on a certain storage device. RAR files can use something called file spanning. This lets you split one very large RAR archive into several smaller parts. You can then send these parts separately and put them back together later.

Programs That Open RAR Files

To open or create RAR files, you need special software called a file archiver. Different computer systems have different programs that can do this. Some programs can only open (read) RAR files, while others can also create (write) them.

Programs for Windows Computers

• To create and open: WinRAR
• To only open: 7-Zip, PeaZip, and other tools like free unrar

Programs for Linux Computers

• To create and open: RAR (often used through the command line)
• To only open: free unrar, PeaZip

Programs for Mac OS X Computers

• To create and open: RAR (command line), SimplyRAR
• To only open: RAR Expander, UnRarX, and free unrar