Summary

Are you having trouble opening a ZIP file on your Windows PC?

Possibly, the file is corrupted.

The Compressed Folder is invalid."

A Windows 11 PC.

Hannah Stryker / How-To Geek

In this case, your first step should be to re-download the ZIP file.

This time, ensure the download completes without any disruptions.

If you’ve received the ZIP file through email, ask the sender to send the file again.

Corrupt ZIP file prompt on Windows.

Use WinZip Command-Line Utility to Repair the ZIP File

WinZip is a populararchive extraction tool for Windows.

It also has a command-line utility that you’ve got the option to use to repair corrupted files.

To begin with, visit theWinZip official websiteand download its free version.

Try it free option to download WinZip for free.

Once the download is complete, install it like you install any other software on your system.

implement the downloaded file on your gear.

Right-tap the corrupted ZIP file and choose “Copy As Path.”

WinZip Installation window.

launch the Start menu, bang out “Command Prompt” in the search bar, and hit Enter.

In the Command Prompt window, typecd, paste the copied path, and hit Enter.

check that to remove the corrupted file name from the pasted path.

Command Line Versions of WinZip

WinZip will start repairing the ZIP file.

Try opening this new file.

It offers a built-in repair feature that can help you fix corrupted files.

Installation window of WinZip command line utility.

To use it, first,download and install WinRARon your machine.

grab the corrupted ZIP file and click “Repair.”

Once the repair is finished, you should be able tounzip the filewithout any issues.

Copy as path option in the context menu.

Repairing the corrupt ZIP file on your machine was a breeze, wasn’t it?

Now that it’s fixed, you could easily share it with others.

Even better, you canpassword-protect the fileto keep prying eyes out.

Typing Command Prompt in Start Menu.

Path of the corrupted file.

Command to repair ZIP file in Command Prompt.

Press any key to continue message in Command Prompt.

Fixed folder created by WinZip.

Download WinRAR button to download Windows version of WinRAR.

One Up Arror in WinRAR.

Repair option in WinRAR.

Treat the corrupt file as ZIP option in WinRAR.

Windows