Windows
How to Open RAR Files in Windows 10
Windows 10 File Explorer has no built-in RAR support, so opening a RAR file requires installing a free extraction tool first.
Unlike Windows 11, Windows 10 cannot extract RAR archives out of the box. You'll need a free third-party tool such as 7-Zip or PeaZip, both available from their official sites, before File Explorer can handle .rar files.
Install a RAR-capable tool
- 1Download 7-Zip or PeaZipGet the installer from the official site (7-zip.org), not a third-party download page.
- 2Run the installerAccept the defaults unless you have a specific reason to change them.
- 3Confirm the context menu entry appearedRight-click any file to check for a 7-Zip or PeaZip submenu.
Extract via the context menu
- 1Right-click the RAR fileLook for the 7-Zip or PeaZip submenu.
- 2Choose Extract Here or Extract to folderExtract to folder is safer since it keeps the contents contained.
- 3Wait for extraction to finishLarger archives take longer, especially over a slow disk.
Verifying extraction
Open the destination folder and confirm the expected files are present. If the tool reported an error partway through, the archive may be corrupted or missing part of a multi-part set. For general extraction guidance across platforms, see how to extract a RAR file.
Frequently asked questions
Can Windows 10 open RAR files without installing anything?
No. Windows 10 has no built-in RAR support, unlike Windows 11.
Is 7-Zip free?
Yes, 7-Zip is free and open-source, available from 7-zip.org.
Do I need WinRAR to open RAR files on Windows 10?
No. Free tools like 7-Zip and PeaZip can extract RAR files; WinRAR is only required to create new RAR archives.
Why does the context menu entry not appear after installing?
Some installers require a restart of File Explorer or the PC, or you may need to reinstall and confirm the shell integration option was checked.
Related guides
- How to Open RAR Files in Windows 11Windows 11 added native RAR extraction to File Explorer, so most `.rar` files open without installing anything.
- How to Extract a RAR FileExtracting a RAR archive turns its compressed contents back into normal, usable files. Here's how to do it correctly across platforms.
- WinRAR AlternativesIf you want to stop paying for or evaluating WinRAR, several free and paid programs can open and create archives instead. Here is what each one does and does not do.
- Windows 10 and Archive FilesWindows 10 File Explorer has always handled ZIP archives on its own, but it has never included native RAR support.
- Why Won't My RAR File Open?Work through these causes in order, from most to least common. Most RAR files that "won't open" are fixed at the first or second step.
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