What is what does it mean to extract a file?

Extracting a file, also known as unzipping, refers to the process of decompressing or unpacking a file that has been compressed into a single archive file. This is commonly done with file formats like ZIP, RAR, and 7z.

Here's a breakdown of what it entails:

• Compression: Large files or collections of files are often compressed to reduce their file size, making them easier to store, share, and download. This involves using an algorithm to identify and eliminate redundancy in the data.
• Archive: The compressed file is usually packaged into a single archive file. This archive acts as a container for the compressed data.
• Extraction/Unzipping: The extraction process reverses the compression, restoring the original files or folders to their original state. A special software program designed for handling these formats (like WinZip, WinRAR, or 7-Zip) is used to extract the contents of the archive.
• Purpose: The main purpose of extraction is to access the individual files or folders contained within the compressed archive. Until the files are extracted, you cannot directly use them.

In essence, extracting a file is like unpacking a box to reveal the items inside.