Often data available over the Internet is in a compressed format. Compression allows larger files to be downloaded in less time. It also allows you to download many small files with one command. You will recognize compressed files by the filename extensions. Generally you will encounter two types: .EXE and .ZIP or .Z.

Files with the extension .EXE are "self extracting" files. These files can usually be downloaded to your computer by clicking on the file name in the Browser and asking to save the file when your browser gives you the option. Once you have saved the file to your hard drive you can uncompress the file by double-clicking its icon from within Windows Explorer. When you double-click it you will see a window with a list of the file names and directories the program is extracting from the file. Once these have been extracted use word processing or spreadsheet software to open the individual files.

Files with the extensions .ZIP or .Z must be uncompressed using a utility such as WinZip or NetZip. If you do not have one of these utilities installed your browser will prompt you to install one. See . If you do have one of these utilities installed it will download the file and uncompress it for you. You can then use word processing or spreadsheet software to open the individual files.

Last revised August 18, 1998