Windows Extraction Error: Compressed Folders Zip Up User’s Files
Windows users who rely on the built-in zip utility tool to compress and extract folders have been reporting data loss lately. The tool, called Compressed Folders, is responsible for compressing files and folders to reduce their size for easier storage and transfer. However, users who tried to extract their compressed folders recently encountered an issue that made the tool zip up their files instead of extracting them, resulting in lost data.
The issue has been affecting users across different Windows versions, from Windows 7 to the latest Windows 10. While Microsoft has acknowledged the problem, it has yet to provide a permanent solution to fix the Compressed Folders tool. In the meantime, users are advised to use third-party extraction tools to avoid data loss.
In this article, we will discuss the Windows Extraction Error in detail, its causes, and possible solutions for affected users.
Users Report Data Loss After Windows Extraction Error
According to reports from affected users, the Windows Extraction Error occurs when they try to extract a compressed folder using the built-in Compressed Folders tool. Instead of extracting the contents of the folder, the tool zips up the folder itself, resulting in lost data. Users who encounter this issue are left with a compressed folder that contains only a single .zip file instead of their original files and folders.
The problem has been reported across various Windows versions, including Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10. However, not all users are affected by the issue, and it seems to happen randomly.
Microsoft Acknowledges Compressed Folder Issue
Microsoft has acknowledged the Compressed Folders issue and has released a statement regarding the problem. According to the statement, the issue is caused by a bug in the Windows operating system that affects the built-in zip utility. Microsoft has promised to fix the issue in a future update but has not provided a specific timeline for the fix.
What is a Compressed Folder?
A compressed folder is a type of file format that reduces file size by compressing files and folders into a smaller package. The package is then easier to store and transfer to other devices or locations. The compressed folder format is also known as a zip file, which is a popular archive format that can be opened on different operating systems.
How to Create a Compressed Folder in Windows?
Creating a compressed folder in Windows is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to create a compressed folder:
- Select the files or folders you want to compress.
- Right-click on the selection and choose “Send to” > “Compressed (zipped) folder.”
- A new compressed folder will be created with the same name as the selection.
Can Users Recover Lost Data from Compressed Folders?
If you have lost data due to the Windows Extraction Error, it might be possible to recover your files using data recovery software. However, the success of the recovery depends on various factors, such as the extent of the data loss and the availability of the original files. It is recommended to try data recovery as soon as possible to increase the chances of success.
Workaround: Use Third-Party Extraction Tools
To avoid data loss due to the Windows Extraction Error, users are advised to use third-party extraction tools instead of the built-in Compressed Folders tool. Some popular options include 7-Zip, WinRAR, and PeaZip. These tools offer more features and customization options than the Compressed Folders tool and are not affected by the Windows Extraction Error.
Microsoft Promises Fix for Windows Extraction Error
Microsoft has promised to fix the Windows Extraction Error in a future update. However, the company has not provided a specific timeline for the fix. In the meantime, users are advised to use third-party extraction tools to avoid data loss.
Latest Windows Update Does Not Solve the Issue
The latest Windows update, released in September 2021, does not solve the Compressed Folders issue. The update includes security patches and bug fixes but does not address the Windows Extraction Error.
What Causes the Windows Extraction Error?
The Windows Extraction Error is caused by a bug in the Compressed Folders tool, which results in the tool zipping up the folder instead of extracting its contents. The bug has been affecting users across different Windows versions and seems to happen randomly.
How to Avoid Windows Extraction Error?
To avoid the Windows Extraction Error, users are advised to use third-party extraction tools instead of the built-in Compressed Folders tool. Some popular options include 7-Zip, WinRAR, and PeaZip. These tools offer more features and customization options than the Compressed Folders tool and are not affected by the Windows Extraction Error.
Should Windows Users Stop Using Compressed Folders?
While the Compressed Folders issue is a cause for concern, it does not mean that Windows users should stop using compressed folders altogether. Compressed folders are still a useful tool for reducing file size and transferring files to other devices or locations. However, users are advised to use third-party extraction tools to avoid the Windows Extraction Error until Microsoft releases a fix for the issue.
In conclusion, the Windows Extraction Error is a serious issue that has caused data loss for many Windows users. While Microsoft has acknowledged the problem, a permanent solution is yet to be released. In the meantime, users are advised to use third-party extraction tools to avoid data loss and try data recovery if they have already lost their files. Compressed folders are still a useful tool for Windows users, but caution should be exercised until the Compressed Folders issue is resolved.