How do I 'ZIP' a large folder in Windows 7

I need to ZIP a folder containing files of about 250 MB. How do I go about this in Windows 7 Home Premium? Also where is the "Compressed (zipped) Folder" (in the "send to" drop down menu) located? Thank you

Launch Windows Explorer. Select all the files/folder you want to compress (you can also use CTRL+click to add more files). Right-Click > Send To > Compressed Folder. The ZIP will be located in the folder you are workin in. There is a tutorial if you need more info : Zip a File or Folder - How To

Here are screenshots of how it's done with the built-in zip feature :



If you want more features though, I recommend 7-Zip. It's lightweight, has a LOT of options, usually has better compression on ZIP (or you can use the 7z format which compresses even more), and is open-source : 7-Zip. It will add a context menu accessible via Right-Click in Explorer.

Here are screenshots of the same process with 7-zip :

Hello oneeyed,

This is great help. I just familiarized myself with both methods. It's so easy, when you know how - thanks to you! The tutorial is great too.

Kind regards