How to Install Zip and Unzip in Linux

Compressing and extracting files is a basic task in Linux, and the zip and unzip utilities make it easy. Most distributions don’t have them installed by default, but setting them up takes only a minute. Here’s how you can install and use them on popular Linux distros.

Step 1: Update Your Package Manager

Before installing, it’s a good idea to update your system’s package index. Run:

sudo apt update       # For Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf check-update # For Fedora
sudo yum check-update # For CentOS/RHEL

Step 2: Install Zip and Unzip

On Debian/Ubuntu

sudo apt install zip unzip -y

On Fedora

sudo dnf install zip unzip -y

On CentOS/RHEL

sudo yum install zip unzip -y

Step 3: Verify Installation

Check the version to confirm they’re installed:

zip -v
unzip -v

Step 4: Basic Usage

Create a Zip File

zip archive_name.zip file1 file2 file3

Example:

zip my_docs.zip *.txt

This compresses all .txt files into my_docs.zip.

Extract a Zip File

unzip archive_name.zip

Example:

unzip my_docs.zip

This extracts the contents into the current directory.

Step 5: Extra Tips

• To list contents without extracting:
  unzip -l archive_name.zip
• To extract to a specific directory:
  unzip archive_name.zip -d /path/to/destination
• To add files to an existing archive:
  zip archive_name.zip newfile.txt

Bonus: Browsing While You Work on Linux

If you want a smooth browsing experience while working on Linux, check out these browsers:

🔥 Download Opera GX (Gamer’s Browser) – built for performance, with gamer-friendly tools.

🌍 Try Opera One (Multigeo) – a modern browser that’s sleek, private, and flexible.

💸 Every install supports COMPUTER EVERYWHERE — thank you!

Conclusion

With just a few commands, you can install and use zip and unzip on any Linux distribution. Whether you’re backing up files, sending compressed data, or organizing projects, these tools are reliable and lightweight. And if you’re browsing while coding, Opera GX and Opera One are worth a try.

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!