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.RAR file extension

To open .RAR files on Windows, open with WinRAR or 7-Zip.

.rar files are compressed archives. Use WinRAR, 7-Zip, or compatible extraction tools.

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Last updated: March 17, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker

Open on your device

Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.

How to open .RAR files

Use these platform-specific instructions to open .RAR files safely.

Windows

  1. Open with WinRAR or 7-Zip.
  2. Extract to a dedicated folder before running any files.
Full Windows guide

Mac

  1. Use The Unarchiver, Keka, or WinRAR for macOS alternatives.
Full Mac guide

Linux

  1. Use unrar/p7zip tools from package manager.
  2. Extract from terminal when GUI support is limited.
Full Linux guide

iOS

  1. Use archive apps that support RAR extraction.
Full iOS guide

Android

  1. Use RAR app or other archive tools from trusted publishers.
Full Android guide

Security notes

  • Treat extracted executables as untrusted until scanned.
  • Do not disable antivirus protections for archive extraction.

Recommended antivirus software

Scan files before opening them. These antivirus tools help protect against malware and viruses.

Avast

Avast offers free and premium antivirus software that protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing. Scan files before opening them to ensure safety.

Norton

Norton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, VPN, and identity theft monitoring. Scan files for threats before opening to keep your device secure.

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Can't open this file?

These are the most common causes and fixes when .RAR files fail to open.

Common reasons

  • Missing part in multi-volume RAR

Fix steps

  1. Confirm all parts are downloaded.
  2. Keep part files in one folder.
  3. Start extraction from the first volume.

OS-specific troubleshooting

What is a .RAR file?

RAR is a proprietary archive format that supports compression, error recovery records, and split volume archives.

Common MIME types: application/vnd.rar

Common .RAR issues

Missing part in multi-volume RAR

Split archives require every volume file to be present.

  1. Confirm all parts are downloaded.
  2. Keep part files in one folder.
  3. Start extraction from the first volume.

FAQ

Can 7-Zip open RAR?

Yes, 7-Zip can typically extract RAR archives.

Why does extraction fail near the end?

A missing or corrupted archive part is the most common cause.

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