Almost every computer has a file archiving / extracting tool. Wether is was PK zip under DOS, WinZip under Windows 95, or WinRAR, 7-Zip, PowerArchiver in current times. As you know, I strongly believe in, and encourage the use of, open and free software where possible. So for the past years, when I wanted to create or extract an archive, 7-Zip was the tool I turned to. In some cases, I had problems extracting multipart .rar archives – containing nothing but legal content of course (*cough*). And that’s when I started looking for a replacement, and fell in love with PeaZip.
Flexibility
PeaZip can extract most of archive formats both from Windows and Unix worlds: currently 87 file extensions are supported ranging from mainstream 7Z, RAR, TAR and ZIP to experimental ones like PAQ/LPAQ family, currently the most powerful compressor available.
For archive creation, PeaZip suppors a wide range of compression and encryption standard, from fastes to most powerful ones, and allows to export job definition as scripts to bridge the gap between GUI and console applications, and let the user pick the best of the two worlds.PeaZip is a reliable solution for most of the archive types you may met,
and will help you in finding the right tool for a wide range of specific needsPortability
You can use PeaZip on all Windows version and on Linux (PeaZip is a desktop neutral application) with the same features and look and feel; moreover, for both platforms, PeaZip is also available as standalone, portable application not needing installation.You can bring PeaZip with you and rely on it on multiple platforms
Security
PeaZip has secure deletion feature, can verify file checksum and hash, and supports multiple strong encryption standards, optionally using two factor authentication (password and keyfile) for increased security:
7Z’s AES256 encryption
ZIP WinZip’s AE encryption based on AES256 (and ZipCrypto for legacy compatibility); can decrypt PKZip’s AES encryption
FreeARC’s ARC: AES256, Blowfish, Twofish256 and Serpent256 – this format is also capable to generate recovery records to protect data against corruption
PEA: AES256 EAX authenticated encryptionPeaZip is focused on security and supports multiple encryption standards
Free as in freedom
PeaZip is freeware, free of charge for any use, and is also free as in freedom since it’s Open Source (LGPLv3)