WinRAR
WinRAR Download Guide for Windows
WinRAR 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.
Get an archive tool for your computer
Download the installer and start opening RAR, ZIP and 7z archives in a few minutes.
What you're downloading
WinRAR is a Windows archiving program made by RARLAB. It is commercial software with an evaluation period rather than a free download, and it is only formally available for Windows — see WinRAR for Windows if you're unsure whether it supports your version.
32-bit or 64-bit?
Modern Windows PCs are almost always 64-bit, and the 64-bit build is the one to choose in that case. If you have an older or specialized 32-bit Windows installation, you need the 32-bit build instead. See 64-bit WinRAR and 32-bit WinRAR for how to check which one your system needs.
How releases and licensing work
RARLAB periodically publishes new WinRAR releases with bug fixes and format updates. Every installer, regardless of version, starts under the same evaluation terms described on WinRAR licensing — there is no separate free edition.
Where to get the official installer
Download WinRAR directly from RARLAB's own site: official WinRAR download (external). Avoid search-result ads, forum links, or file-sharing sites claiming to host WinRAR — these are common sources of bundled adware or malware disguised as an installer.
How to verify the installer is legitimate
- 1Check the address barConfirm the URL is the official RARLAB/win-rar.com domain and that the connection uses HTTPS before you click download.
- 2Check the file sizeA genuine WinRAR installer is a few megabytes and matches the size shown on the official download page. A file far smaller or wrapped in an unrelated archive is a red flag.
- 3Check the digital signatureRight-click the downloaded
.exe, choose Properties, and open the Digital Signatures tab. A legitimate installer shows a valid signature tied to the publisher. - 4Scan before runningRun the file through your antivirus or Windows Security scan before opening it, even when it came from the official site.
Installing WinRAR
Once verified, run the installer and follow the prompts. The full walkthrough, including the file-association and shell-integration dialog, is on our installation guide.
Uninstalling WinRAR
If you need to remove it later, use the standard Windows uninstall process described on uninstalling WinRAR to also clear leftover file associations.
Common installation problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Installer won't launch | Blocked by SmartScreen or antivirus, or download was incomplete | WinRAR installation error |
| "Access denied" during install | Installer needs administrator rights | WinRAR installation error |
| WinRAR opens but won't extract files | Corrupted download or damaged archive, not the installer itself | corrupted RAR file |
| Trial reminder keeps appearing | Normal evaluation-period behavior, not an error | WinRAR licensing |
Download and try it yourself
Install the archive tool and apply the steps from this guide on your own files.
Frequently asked questions
Is WinRAR safe to download?
Yes, when it comes directly from RARLAB's official site over HTTPS. Verify the file's digital signature and scan it before running, as described above.
Does RareExplorer host the WinRAR installer?
No. We link to the official vendor source only and do not host, mirror, or modify any installer.
Do I need to pay before downloading?
No. The installer runs under an evaluation period first; you are not required to pay to start using it. See [WinRAR licensing](/winrar-license).
Can I install WinRAR without administrator rights?
Standard installation typically requires administrator permission on Windows. See [WinRAR installation](/winrar-installation) for details.
Related guides
- 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 Licensing ExplainedWinRAR is commercial software distributed under an evaluation model, not a free program, though it keeps working after the trial ends.
- WinRAR 64-bitAlmost every current Windows PC should use the 64-bit WinRAR build, since nearly all modern Windows installations are themselves 64-bit.
- WinRAR Installation Error: Common Causes and FixesInstaller failures are almost always one of a handful of causes: a blocked file, missing permissions, a bad download, or the wrong build for your system.
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.