In order to view a file contained in a WinZip file, you need to have a program that is capable of displaying that type of file. WinZip can display text files using its built-in viewer and if you have a Pro registration will also open most picture files. For other types of files, though (including word processor documents), you will need to have an external program installed. The program you need depends on the type of file you want to display. For example, to display a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet (.xlsx), you must have either Excel or a viewer that is capable of displaying Microsoft Office documents.
In many cases you will already have the software necessary to view files. For others, it is often possible to obtain free or inexpensive viewers. Some options for viewing a few of the most common file types are listed below.
| Note: By providing this list, WinZip Computing does not endorse any of the listed products or imply that they are superior to other similar products. Nor, of course, can we provide support for these programs. This list simply describes a few programs of which we are aware and is provided as a service to WinZip users. |
Many of the links below are to pages that are outside of the WinZip web site, they will open in new browser windows (or tabs), and may change without our knowledge.
- Graphics files (.jpg, .png, .gif, .bmp, etc.)
WinZip will show thumbnails of your graphics files while in the default Tall Rows view or when in the Icon view. WinZip Pro also includes an internal image previewer that, when maximized, allows you to browse through full-size images without the need for a separate application and without manually extracting the images from the Zip file. The previewer also provides tools to rotate, resize, and delete images. This saves time and makes it easier than ever to manage images within your Zip files.
If you don't have the latest version of WinZip Pro, new WinZip users can buy a copy and registered users of an earlier version of WinZip can upgrade to the latest WinZip version for 50% off the full price, optionally choosing to upgrade to a Pro registration.
Alternatively, you can use Window's built-in Photo app to view graphics files.
- Microsoft Office documents
Microsoft provides free viewers for various types of Office documents, including Excel spreadsheets (.xlsx), Word documents (.docx), PowerPoint presentations (.pptx), etc.
- Adobe Acrobat documents (.pdf)
Adobe Systems provides the free Adobe Reader for PDF files (Adobe Acrobat documents)
- AutoCAD files
Autodesk provides the free Autodesk Design Review for AutoCAD files (DWF, DWG, DXF, DGN, JT, raster files, and more)
If you have any questions about this information, please submit a Technical Support ticket.
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