WinZip 14.5.9095

CNET Editors' review

by: Seth Rosenblatt on October 14, 2009

With version 14 of this venerable archiving tool, WinZip aims specifically at Windows 7 compliance and enhancements, and adds a few other new features, too. WinZip in Windows 7 gets extensive support for libraries, tools, and recent archives in the jumplist, previews in Windows Explorer for certain file types, and basic touch-screen support. Multitouch support is limited to rotating pictures previewed from WinZip archives.

WinZip 14 also includes minor security enhancements. New automatic wiping keeps confidential data secret by "shredding" the temporary file that WinZip creates by default whenever it opens an archive. The shredding uses U.S. Department of Defense standard DoD 5220.22-M. WinZip 14 now also supports the built-in AES encryption in Intel-based computers, speeding up the time it takes to encrypt an archive. This builds on the encryption overhaul from last year's version, which included customizable password requirements and enhancements for determining how, if at all, encryption would be enforced.

WinZip 14 retains its large feature set, including drag-and-drop support, content-sensitive previews. It has better JPEG compression that can see JPEG-only archives up to 20 percent smaller, Zip from Camera, and deep context menu support enables you to perform most of WinZip's functions on the fly. However, while installing you should keep an eye out for the Google Toolbar and the "WinZip Computing" that collects anonymous usage data; both are opt-out. Still, WinZip is among the best compression programs available, providing all the features necessary to create easy backups, compress e-mail files, and manage downloaded files from the Internet.

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Publisher's Description

From WinZip Computing:

WinZip is the world's most popular Zip utility for file compression, file encryption, file sharing, and data backup. Now supporting Windows 7 and featuring an Office 2010-style user interface, WinZip 14.5 works the way you think, zipping and unzipping files effortlessly for fast, efficient, and secure uploading and downloading, email transmission, and data archival. Simply select files to compress then just click 'Zip'. And check 'Encrypt' for added security. Or use '1-click Unzip' to open almost any compressed file instantly. Bundle files and photos into zipped packages and share them using 'Attach to E-mail'. And backup your desktop, documents, email, pictures, etc. with just a click on the 'Backup' tab. WinZip creates Zip, LHA and new Zipx files--our smallest Zip files ever. Let WinZip select the best compression method for maximum efficiency. It even compresses digital photos and graphic images by 20 - 25% with no loss of quality. Also create self-extracting Zip files, ideal for distribution to recipients who may not own WinZip. WinZip opens and extracts content from the widest range of archive formats, including Zip, Zipx, RAR, 7Z, BZ2, LHA, CAB, IMG, ISO, and most other compressed file types. Use WinZip to secure confidential files using strong, password-based encryption. It supports FIPS-197 certified 128- and 256-bit AES encryption. Package and share files with WinZip, creating logical groups of related files and emailing them instantly. Zipped packages are perfect for organizing and securing email attachments, which also send faster thanks to smaller file sizes. Prevent data loss with WinZip's automated data backup facility. Backup selected data files and schedule those backups to run automatically and unattended. Burn your backup data to CD/DVD or network drive, or upload your backups to an off-site server using the built-in FTP client. Even automate routine zipping tasks. Save space and time, and keep your digital world safe--Get WinZip today!

What's new in this version: Version 14.5 delivers an entirely new Office 2010-style user interface and unveils numerous key features that dramatically simplify the product.