WinZip Self-Extractor for Windows

Used WinZip Self-Extractor for Windows?

Editors’ Review

Download.com staffNovember 5, 2025

WinZip Self-Extractor is a program that guides you through the process of creating both regular self-extracting Zip files and specialized ones for software distribution. With this program, you won't have to worry about the person you're sharing files with having the appropriate software to open them.

Pros

Clear walkthrough: This app makes it possible for even inexperienced users to complete what is a pretty complicated process by walking you through it step by step. Each screen contains clear instructions about what you need to do and why you're doing it, and tips help new users make the right choices as they move through the creation Wizard.

Customization options: If you do have some experience working with this type of program, you'll be glad to see all of the customization options available that let you control how your new file will behave. You can specify that it unzip to a specific folder, enter a command for the self-extracting file to execute once the unzip is complete, and use your own icon for the file, among many other things.

Cons

Trial limitations: The self-extracting files you create with the trial version of this app are not authorized for distribution. So you can really only use the program for free to get a feel for whether or not you want to purchase it. If you do decide to buy, a license costs $49.95.

Bottom Line

WinZip Self-Extractor is a great utility, if you often need to create self-extracting files, especially for software distribution. It makes the process accessible to users of all experience levels, but with the cost and features, it's really more advanced users who will probably get the most out of this app.

Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of WinZip Self-Extractor 4.0 build 8672.

WinZip Self-Extractor for Windows

Used WinZip Self-Extractor for Windows?

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Full Specifications

GENERAL

Release: November 9, 2009

Latest update: November 5, 2025

Version: 4.0.12218.0

OPERATING SYSTEMS

Platform: Windows

Operating System: Windows 11

POPULARITY

Total Downloads: 4,080,934

Downloads Last Week: 32

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Last Updated

User Reviews

3.8/5

142 User Votes

It works OK
TerryMZMJune 13, 2014
Pros
It works OK
Cons
User interface
Summary
The user interface has needed work since this product was introduced. It still does. Despite the UI's attempts to thwart me, the program actually did what I needed it to do. In all fairness, if I used a compress/decompress program more than once every couple of years, perhaps I could figure out what the cryptic symbols mean more easily. And free is free, so no complaints.
TROJAN HORSE BEWARE!!!!!!
chewingfoilApril 27, 2014
Pros
Didn't get past virus detecting software
Cons
Sure enough, trojan horse loaded, changed my home page and search engines...now I have to spend all day trying to scrub my damn hard drive!!!!! EFFING CNET--YOU HAVE LOST A CLIENT!!!!
Summary
Download if you want spyware, malware, trojan horses etc.
I have not used this extractor yet.
sasamsonMay 27, 2013
Pros
convenient to download.
Cons
Watch out for accompanying junk you didn't ask for or expect. It took a lot of time to remove this stuff from my computer.
Summary
Simply Avoid...
Kard____March 26, 2013
Pros
I lost a lot of customers because of the wrong help file which contains an example which leads to a bug in the self extractor. After I wrote to the support that it should be fixed they replied arrogantly that I have not tested the self extractor well. The most annoying thing is that the fix for the bug is number one in the list of common problems.
Cons
Nothing...
Summary
It was fine.
SCDMay 13, 2012
Pros
I like 15.5 and had to download it again. I paid for it last year.
Cons
Had to download it again.
Summary
Every time I buy one, it updates. Bummer.
You have to be tech savvy to use this...and I'm not.
libraryspecApril 2, 2012
Pros
Easy download and that is just about all the pro I can think of
Cons
No help menu or instruction guide.
Summary
May be a very good program, but there were no instructions and it was a total experience in frustration.
It didn't take long for me to get back to WinZip.
geppy2September 29, 2011
Pros
WinZip is the best self extracting software I have ever used. WinZip is also the only software I want to use.
Cons
I have No cons neither does WinZip.
Summary
I have no idea why I gave it away to try another extractor. Wont happen again I promise.
cant get it to work
stevesberettaJanuary 28, 2011
Pros
none it wont work
Cons
sucks !!!!!!!!!!!
Summary
Nicely did it's job
drynbergDecember 22, 2010
Pros
quick and so far accurate
Cons
none noted
Summary
Nice, get it
did not download
chasreed47December 17, 2010
Pros
did not download
Cons
did not download
Summary
did not download

Developer’s Description

By WinZip Computing

Create self-extracting files from ZIP files.

WinZip Self-Extractor is a utility that creates self-extracting ZIP files that are ideal for electronic file distribution, because they allow the recipient to use a familiar Windows interface to decompress files without a separate unzip utility. Also, self-extracting ZIP files can optionally run a setup or installation program, provided by the creator, after the files are decompressed. WinZip Self-Extractor is a companion product to WinZip, and is separately licensed.