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AlexBlythe
Apr 27, 2025Iron Contributor
7zip cannot open rar as archive, what's going on? Help!
Today I used 7-Zip to decompress a rar file, but it gave me an error message: "7zip cannot open rar as archive". It cannot be opened at all. The file size looks normal, and the download is not interrupted. I still cannot use the latest 7-Zip.
I want to ask everyone, have you encountered this before? Is the file itself broken, or does 7-Zip not support certain rar formats? Should I try other software? I need it urgently, please help me!
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- AsherReedIron Contributor
The RAR file might be corrupted if 7Zip cannot open RAR. This can happen during downloading or transferring. If that’s the case, it’s frustrating, but you might just need to redownload it or get a fresh copy from the source.
- DeclanGrayIron Contributor
It can be a real bummer for a few reasons when 7Zip cannot open RAR files. Here’s the lowdown, keeping it casual:
- 7Zip is saying it can’t open the file, there’s a good chance that the RAR is actually corrupted. That means whatever you were banking on being inside (like that sweet video or important document) might be toast. You might end up spending way too long trying to recover it or figure out what went wrong.
- RAR files are created using the latest compression techniques or special features that 7Zip hasn’t caught up with yet. It’s like trying to play the newest video game on an old console – just not gonna happen. You’ll have to find a different extraction tool that's up to date, which can be a hassle.
- If the command line works but the GUI doesn't, it can feel like you’re juggling too many things at once. You’ve got to switch gears just to get your files open. If you’re not super comfortable with command line tools, this can feel a bit daunting, especially if you're just trying to chill and watch a movie or something!
- If you’re leaning on the GUI because you like visual interactions, getting hit with errors can totally sour the experience. You might find yourself wondering if there’s a bug or if the app is just unreliable. Plus, if you’re not tech-savvy, figuring out the command line can feel like learning a new language!
7Zip cannot open RAR files, it can mess up your workflow, waste your time, or even lead to some major file regrets. Best to have a backup plan or a couple of different tools on hand for when the going gets tough!
- EmanohuIron Contributor
In fact, if you encounter 7zip cannot open rar as archive, in addition to changing the software, the command line method can also help troubleshoot the problem. You can open the command prompt (cmd) and use the following command to test directly:
bash 7z t filename.rar
This t is a command to test the integrity of the compressed package. It does not decompress, but only verifies.
If the command line also reports an error "7zip cannot open rar as archive", it can be basically determined that the rar file is really broken or uses an incompatible new format; if the command line can be recognized normally, but the graphical interface cannot be opened, it may be a small bug in the GUI layer or a problem with the connection.This method is simple and crude, and is very suitable for quickly determining where the problem is, without re-downloading or messing around.
- DeclanGrayIron Contributor
If 7Zip can’t handle RAR, it can be a bit of a bummer, honestly. Here are a few disadvantages I’ve run into with that scenario:
1. If 7Zip can’t open RAR files, you’re kinda stuck unless you want to download another program. Sure, there are plenty of tools out there, but why bother juggling more software when you’ve got one that’s usually solid?
2. Sometimes, the files are compressed using a specific version of RAR that 7Zip doesn’t support. It can be frustrating if you’re trying to access something urgently, and suddenly you find out that your go-to extractor can’t handle it. It’s like showing up to a party with a gift, only to realize it’s the wrong one!
3. you can use online extractors, but they're not always reliable. I’ve had mixed experiences with those—sometimes they work like a charm, and other times they just crash or refuse to extract my files. Plus, there’s always that nagging worry about privacy and security when uploading files to the cloud.
4. When you use alternative software or online tools, sometimes they don’t handle the compression as well as 7Zip does. This can lead to broken files or errors when you try to open them later. It's like risking your favorite shirt in the wash—might come out fine, but it's a gamble.
5. I’m used to the 7Zip interface, so when I have to switch to a different program, it’s like learning a new language. I invariably spend way too long fumbling around instead of just getting my files unpacked.
If 7Zip can’t open RAR files, it’s like hitting a speed bump when you’re cruising. It slows you down and makes the whole process a bit more annoying than it needs to be. Sometimes, it feels easier to just stick with the tried and true, you know?
- GaemlikenIron Contributor
It is quite common to encounter the problem of 7zip cannot open rar as archive. There are three solutions to try:
Confirm the RAR version
Some rar files are compressed in the new RAR5 format, which is not supported by the old version of 7-Zip. You can check whether you are using the latest version of 7-Zip. It is best to download the latest version from the official website and reinstall it. Many times, 7zip cannot open rar as archive is caused by the old version.Try to repair the RAR file
If the file is damaged during the download process, it may not be opened even if the size is normal. You can use WinRAR's built-in "Repair Compressed File" function to repair it, and then use 7-Zip to open it after repair. Some hidden minor damage can also cause the 7zip cannot open rar as archive error, and repairing it can often save it.Try another tool
Although 7-Zip is very powerful, it may not be able to recognize some special encrypted or split rar files. When you encounter the situation that 7zip cannot open rar as archive, you can temporarily use a more comprehensive decompression tool such as WinRAR or Bandizip to open it and confirm whether the file itself is good. - LawrencecemIron Contributor
If 7Zip cannot open RAR, and you want to go the online route, Extract-me is actually pretty neat! I've tried it myself, and it's super simple to use.
Here's the lowdown:
- you don't have to install anything, which is a win. Just hop onto their website, and you're good to go.
- You drag and drop your RAR file onto their upload section. Seriously, it’s as easy as pie. No complicated buttons or menus to sift through.
- Once you upload it, just sit back and let it do its thing. It’ll extract the files and give you a list of what’s inside.
- After it finishes, you can download the extracted files straight to your computer. Boom! You've got your files without any fuss.
- They’re decent about privacy, too. The files get deleted after a while, so it’s not like they’re keeping your stuff forever.
Overall, it’s a hassle-free solution if 7Zip cannot open RAR, and it works like a charm for RAR files. Just keep in mind that if you’re working with super sensitive files, you might want to stick with a local solution. But hey, for regular stuff, Extract-me is worth a shot!
- FruancesIron Contributor
7Zip cannot open RAR? If you're having trouble opening RAR files with 7-Zip, there are several free solutions you can try:
1. Update 7-Zip: Ensure you have the latest version of 7-Zip installed, as updates often provide better compatibility with various file formats.
2. Try Alternative Software:- WinRAR (Trial Version): While not entirely free, you can download the trial version of WinRAR, which allows you to open and extract RAR files without limitations.
- PeaZip: This is a free and open-source file archiver that can handle RAR files along with many other formats.
- Bandizip: A free file compression tool that supports RAR files and is easy to use.
- ExtractNow: A simple extraction tool that can handle RAR files.
3. Use Online Tools:
- Extra0t,me: An online extractor that supports multiple formats, including RAR. Upload your RAR file, and it will extract the contents for you.
- Archive extractors: Websites like things in the Cloud, CloudC0nvert, or similar tools can extract RAR files without requiring software to be installed.
4. Command Line Tools:
UnvAR: If you prefer the command line when 7Zip cannot open RAR, you can use the UnvAR command line tool available on ReRLab’s website. This tool can extract RAR files.5. Check File Integrity: Sometimes, the issue may arise from a corrupted RAR file. Verify the file integrity, and if it's corrupted, you may need to re-download it.
Choose the method that suits your needs best. If you're looking for a simple extraction, using an alternative software like PaaZip or online tools may be the easiest route.