How to Compress and Extract Files on the Server

Using the compression and extraction tools in cPanel is the most efficient way to handle multiple files. Instead of downloading or uploading 1,000 individual files (which is slow), you can bundle them into a single .zip archive.

How to Compress Files (Creating a Zip)

1. Open File Manager: Log in to cPanel and select File Manager.
2. Select Your Files: Navigate to the folder containing your files.
   • Windows Users: Hold the Ctrl key and click individual files, or Shift + click to select a range.
   • Mac Users: Use the Command ⌘ key to select multiple items.
   • Select All: Use the Select All button in the top toolbar to grab everything in the folder.
3. Click Compress: Click the Compress icon in the top toolbar (or right-click and select Compress).
4. Choose Format: Select Zip Archive (most compatible format for Windows and Mac).
5. Name Your File: Enter a name for your archive (e.g., backup_december.zip).
6. Finish: Click Compress File(s). A summary will show the space saved once complete.

How to Extract Files (Unzipping)

1. Locate the Archive: Find the .zip, .tar, or .tar.gz file you want to unpack.
2. Select the File: Click the file once to highlight it.
3. Click Extract: Click the Extract icon in the top toolbar (or right-click and select Extract).
4. Set the Destination:
   • Default: Leaving it blank will extract files into the current folder.
   • Specific Folder: Type a path like public_html/new-site to extract there.
5. Finish: Click Extract File(s). A results window will list all successfully unpacked files.

Commonly Supported Formats

• ZIP (.zip): Best for general use and local computer compatibility.
• Tar (.tar): Standard Linux "tape archive" that bundles files without much compression.
• GZip (.tar.gz): Highly compressed; ideal for large website backups or database dumps.