The RAR (Roshal Archive) format was created in the mid-1990s as an alternative to ZIP files. It is widely used because it often provides —meaning the final file is even smaller than a ZIP—and supports advanced features like error recovery and multi-volume splitting. Common Uses for Numbered Archives

Unlike ZIP files, which Windows and macOS can open natively, RAR files usually require third-party software for extraction.

Below is a guide on what these files are and how to manage them. Understanding the RAR Format