Winzip Fix

You do not need Winzip to open a zip file. Windows can open zip files just fine (like a folder) without any 3rd-party tools like Winzip. Opening zip files is a normal function of the Windows operating system. However, since you installed Winzip at some point, that is why your Windows now associates Winzip with opening zip files.  This can be fixed.

Here is how Winzip got on your computer and why it is popping up now: You must have downloaded a trial version of Winzip at some point and that is why your computer is trying to use Winzip to open the zip file. By installing Winzip, you have changed your operating system to associate zip files with WinZip. This is why it keeps asking you to buy Winzip every time you try to open a zip file. 

Here is how opening a zip file should work:

1. Right-click on the zip file that you want to open.
2. Choose the Explore option from the menu that appears.
3. The zip file should now open just like a folder to display the contents.
4. Double click on the file you want to use or drag it to your desktop.

That's how easy it should be.  If that doesn't work on your computer, try this.

Uninstalling WInZip

If you don't want Winzip, you should uninstall it (go to CONTROL PANEL >> ADD/REMOVE PROGRAMS >> SELECT WINZIP AND UNINSTALL). If you uninstall Winzip and you still cannot open a zip file by either double clicking on it or with a right mouse click and choosing "EXPLORE," then you have done some damage to your file associations. Dont worry, these are easily reset.  Zip files are opened with a tool in your Windows directory that is called Explorer.exe (this is what Windows calls "Windows Explorer"). 

How to reset the file association to Windows Explorer instead of Winzip.

1. Right-click on a zip file.
2. Choose "Open With" and then select "Choose Default Program."
3. Click on "Browse" and navigate to C:Windows and look for explorer.exe.  Click on explorer.exe and click below on the button that says "Open."
4. Now you should be back at the "OPEN WITH" Window and Windows Explorer should be there and highlighted.
5. Click the box that says "Always use the selected program to open this kind of file" and then click OK. A few moments later your zip file will open just like a folder. Simply double click on the installer inside and it should run perfectly.