WinRAR
WinRAR 64-bit
Almost every current Windows PC should use the 64-bit WinRAR build, since nearly all modern Windows installations are themselves 64-bit.
Get an archive tool for your computer
Download the installer and start opening RAR, ZIP and 7z archives in a few minutes.
How to check whether your Windows is 64-bit
- 1Open SettingsGo to Settings > System > About.
- 2Find System typeLook at the System type field under Device specifications.
- 3Read the resultIt will say something like "64-bit operating system, x64-based processor" or "32-bit operating system, x86-based processor."
Why 64-bit is preferred
- Matches the architecture of virtually all current Windows 10 and Windows 11 installations.
- Can address more memory when working with very large archives, which helps with big multi-gigabyte files.
- Is the build RARLAB actively targets for current hardware.
What if I install the wrong build?
A 64-bit installer will not run on a 32-bit Windows system. If you accidentally try to install the wrong architecture, the installer will typically fail or refuse to launch — in that case see WinRAR installation error. Installing the 32-bit build on a 64-bit system generally still works, but it does not take advantage of the benefits above; see 32-bit WinRAR for when that build is actually the right one.
Downloading and installing
Once you've confirmed your system type, follow the WinRAR download guide to get the correct installer and WinRAR installation for setup steps. This applies the same way on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Download and try it yourself
Install the archive tool and apply the steps from this guide on your own files.
Frequently asked questions
Is 64-bit WinRAR faster?
It's better suited to modern hardware and very large archives due to memory addressing, though everyday extraction speed differences are usually minor.
Can I switch from 32-bit to 64-bit WinRAR later?
Yes. Uninstall the 32-bit version using the steps on [uninstalling WinRAR](/winrar-uninstall), then install the 64-bit installer.
How do I know my Windows version is 64-bit before downloading?
Check Settings > System > About > System type, as described above, before choosing an installer.
Related guides
- WinRAR 32-bitThe 32-bit WinRAR build exists mainly for older or specialized Windows installations that can't run 64-bit software.
- WinRAR Download Guide for WindowsWinRAR is only distributed as a program you install; getting it safely means downloading from RARLAB's official site and confirming the installer is genuine before you run it.
- How to Install WinRAR on WindowsInstalling WinRAR takes a few minutes and one dialog worth reading carefully: the file-association and shell-integration screen.
- WinRAR on Windows 11Windows 11 can open RAR files without any extra software, but WinRAR still adds features that Windows' built-in support doesn't cover.
WinRAR is a trademark of its respective owner. RareExplorer is an independent resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by RARLAB or win.rar GmbH. Read our editorial policy to see how this page was researched.