Mac Users: 6 Steps To Open And Extract Rar Files
As a Mac user, you may come across files compressed in the RAR format. RAR files are commonly used to compress large files into a smaller size, making it easier to transfer or store them. However, Mac computers do not have built-in support for opening or extracting RAR files. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to open and extract RAR files on your Mac.
Step 1: Install Unarchiver
The first step is to install a third-party application called Unarchiver. Unarchiver is a free and reliable tool that allows you to open various archive formats, including RAR files, on your Mac. Follow these steps to install Unarchiver:
- Open the App Store on your Mac.
- Search for “Unarchiver” in the search bar.
- Click on the “Get” button next to Unarchiver to download and install it.
Step 2: Locate the RAR File
Once you have installed Unarchiver, locate the RAR file that you want to open or extract. The RAR file may be saved in a folder on your Mac or received as an attachment in an email.
Step 3: Right-click on the RAR File
To open or extract the contents of the RAR file, simply right-click on the file. This will open a drop-down menu with various options.
Step 4: Select “Open With” and Choose Unarchiver
In the drop-down menu, select the “Open With” option. This will display a list of applications that can be used to open the RAR file. Choose Unarchiver from the list.
Step 5: Extract the RAR File
After selecting Unarchiver, the RAR file will automatically be extracted. The extracted files will be saved in the same location as the original RAR file. You can now access and use the extracted files as needed.
Step 6: Delete the RAR File
Once you have extracted the files from the RAR file, you may choose to delete the original RAR file to free up storage space on your Mac. Simply locate the RAR file and move it to the Trash.
Conclusion
Opening and extracting RAR files on a Mac is a simple process with the help of the Unarchiver application. By following the six steps outlined in this guide, you can easily access the contents of RAR files and utilize them on your Mac.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different application to open RAR files on my Mac?
Yes, there are several other applications available that can open RAR files on a Mac. Some popular alternatives include StuffIt Expander, WinRAR, and iZip. However, Unarchiver is a reliable and user-friendly option that we recommend.
2. Are there any limitations to opening RAR files on a Mac?
No, once you have installed Unarchiver or another compatible application, you can open and extract RAR files without any limitations. However, it’s important to note that RAR files may be password-protected, and you will need the correct password to access their contents.
3. Can I create RAR files on a Mac?
While Mac computers do not have native support for creating RAR files, you can use third-party applications like WinRAR or iZip to create RAR files on your Mac.
4. Are RAR files compatible with other operating systems?
Yes, RAR files can be opened and extracted on other operating systems like Windows and Linux. However, the process may vary slightly depending on the software used.
5. Can I compress files into a RAR format on a Mac?
Yes, you can use third-party applications like WinRAR or iZip to compress files into the RAR format on your Mac.