Windows 11’s built-in archiving support will gain new features, giving users more flexibility and customization when working with ZIP, 7zip and TAR archives without relying on third-party applications. The latest Windows 11 preview from CanaryChannel introduces a new compression wizard where users can select the format, compression level, compression algorithm and some additional features.
Microsoft introduced 7zip, TAR, RAR, 7Z and other archive formats last year. However, the ability to compress files into archives remains unchanged, leaving users with only one option. Windows 11 Build 26040 changes this situation.
Users using the latest CanaryChannel version can right-click on one or several files and select "Compress to" > "Additional options". This will open a new wizard where the user can select the following options:
Archive formats: 7zip, TAR and ZIP (RAR not available).
Compression method storage, Deflate, BZip2, LZMA1, LZMA2, PPMd. The options available depend on the archive format selected.
Compression level: from 0 to 9.
Preserve other options for symbolic links and hard links.
Unlike other changes in version 26040, the new compression feature is available to all Canary users without any hidden features or IDs being enabled. Unfortunately it is still not possible to password protect archives or open protected archives.
It remains to be seen how the upgraded archiving options perform compared to third-party applications. When Microsoft initially offered support for RAR and other formats, we found that its performance was significantly lower than popular alternatives like WinRAR or 7Zip.
Other changes in Windows 11 build 26040 include a new Task Manager icon, 80Gbps USB support, improved screen casting, taskbar enhancements, bug fixes, and a new Settings experience.