What is a .Z file?
The file extension .Z refers to a Unix Compressed File. This type of file is commonly used on Unix-based operating systems to compress and store files more efficiently, helping to save valuable disk space. The compression uses a straightforward algorithm designed for archiving files, which means it combines multiple files into a single file that takes up less space.
To decompress a .Z file on a Unix system, you can use the command `uncompress filename.z` in the terminal, where "filename.z" should be replaced with the actual name of your compressed file. This process will restore the file to its original size and format.
There are several programs available that can open .Z files across different operating systems: 1. **On Unix/Linux systems:** - `uncompress` (typically included with the operating system) - `gzip` - can also handle .Z files besides its primary .GZ format - `zcat` (included with the operating system) - `znew` (included with the operating system) - specifically useful for converting .Z files to the more modern .GZ format - `unpack` - `Archive Manager` (often included with the operating system) 2. **On Windows:** - `File Viewer Plus` — available from the Microsoft Store - `Smith Micro StuffIt Deluxe` - `Corel WinZip` - `RARLAB WinRAR` - `7-Zip` 3. **On macOS:** - `Smith Micro StuffIt Deluxe Mac 16` - `Corel WinZip` - `Incredible Bee Archiver` - `The Unarchiver` 4. **On Android devices:** - `File Viewer for Android` It's important to note that the .Z file format has largely been superseded by the GNU zip format, which uses the .GZ extension. This newer format is more efficient and widely supported. For users who still encounter .Z files, the `znew` utility on Unix systems can be used to convert these files into the .GZ format, making them easier to manage and more compatible with modern software.
Verification
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