- by x32x01 ||
Creating a ZIP archive is one of the easiest ways to organize and transfer multiple files. Whether you’re sharing documents, uploading to the cloud, or just saving space - ZIP compression makes it happen!
It reduces file size
without losing any data or quality after extraction.
However, Linux doesn’t come with ZIP support by default
- but don’t worry! You can easily enable it in a few steps.
The tar command is Linux’s built-in tool for archiving, but using the zip utility is simpler and more universal. Let’s install it first 
If you prefer using the graphical interface instead of commands, follow these easy steps:
For command-line lovers or when working on remote servers 
, here’s how to do it:
Need to keep your files private? You can create encrypted ZIP files easily using the -e option:
You’ll be asked to enter and confirm your password.
Don’t worry if nothing appears on the screen - Linux hides password input for security reasons.
After confirmation, your ZIP file will be protected with a password
.
And that’s it! 
You now know how to:
It reduces file size
without losing any data or quality after extraction.However, Linux doesn’t come with ZIP support by default
- but don’t worry! You can easily enable it in a few steps.
How to Create a ZIP File in Linux
The tar command is Linux’s built-in tool for archiving, but using the zip utility is simpler and more universal. Let’s install it first - Open your Terminal using
Ctrl + Alt + T - Run the following command:
Code:sudo apt install zip unzip
Method 1: Create ZIP Files Using the GUI (File Manager)
If you prefer using the graphical interface instead of commands, follow these easy steps:- Open File Manager.
- Right-click on the file or folder you want to compress.
- Select Compress.
- Choose the Name and Location of your archive.
- Confirm your options and click OK
.
Method 2: Create ZIP Files Using the Terminal
For command-line lovers or when working on remote servers , here’s how to do it:- Open Terminal (
Ctrl + Alt + T). - Use the following command:
zip -r filename.zipfilenamehere.extension
- The -r flag means “recursive,” allowing you to ZIP entire folders and subfolders.
Code:
zip -r project.zip myproject/
How to Create a Password-Protected ZIP File in Linux
Need to keep your files private? You can create encrypted ZIP files easily using the -e option: Code:
zip -e secure.zip secretfile.txtYou’ll be asked to enter and confirm your password.
Don’t worry if nothing appears on the screen - Linux hides password input for security reasons.After confirmation, your ZIP file will be protected with a password
.
Conclusion
And that’s it! You now know how to:
- Install ZIP utilities on Linux
- Compress files using GUI or Terminal
- Protect archives with a password
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