Windows
How to Open a RAR File on Windows 10
Windows 10 has no built-in way to open RAR files, so the first step is always installing a compatible program.
Get an archive tool for your computer
Download the installer and start opening RAR, ZIP and 7z archives in a few minutes.
Step 1: install a RAR-capable extractor
- 1Choose a programSee archive software for Windows to compare free and paid options.
- 2Download from the official sourceFor WinRAR, use the official download page (external).
- 3Run the installerFollow the setup prompts; see installing WinRAR on Windows 10 for detailed steps.
Step 2: extract the RAR file
- 1Locate the fileFind the
.rarfile in File Explorer. - 2Right-click itChoose the extractor's
Extract HereorExtract to <folder>option. - 3Open the resultBrowse to the destination folder to confirm the files extracted correctly.
Command-line alternative
If you'd rather not install a full GUI program, RARLAB also distributes a command-line RAR/unrar utility. It's useful for scripting but has no graphical interface, so most readers are better served by a standard extractor for everyday use.
Troubleshooting
- No app opens the file at all — this is expected on a fresh Windows 10 install; install an extractor first.
- "This file cannot be opened" after installing software — the association may not have been set; see how Windows handles RAR files.
- Archive appears corrupted — see fixing a corrupted RAR file before assuming the download failed.
Download and try it yourself
Install the archive tool and apply the steps from this guide on your own files.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't Windows 10 open RAR files like it does ZIP files?
Microsoft never built native RAR support into Windows 10. ZIP support has existed in Explorer for years, but RAR requires separate software on this version.
Is there a free way to open RAR files on Windows 10?
Yes, several free extractors can open RAR archives on Windows 10 at no cost; see [archive software for Windows](/archive-software-windows).
Can I open a RAR file on Windows 10 without installing anything?
Not through File Explorer. Some online tools can extract small archives in a browser; see [RAR extractor online](/rar-extractor-online) if you don't want to install software.
Related guides
- Windows 10 and Archive FilesWindows 10 File Explorer has always handled ZIP archives on its own, but it has never included native RAR support.
- How to Install WinRAR on Windows 10Installing WinRAR on Windows 10 follows the same basic process as Windows 11, with a few differences worth knowing beforehand.
- Archive Software for WindowsWindows offers several distinct categories of archive software, and the right pick depends on which formats and features you actually need.
- RAR Extractor Online: How It Works and What to CheckSearching for "RAR extractor online" usually turns up services that upload your file to a server, extract it there, and hand back a download link. Here is how that actually works and what to check before you use one.
WinRAR is a trademark of its respective owner. RareExplorer is an independent resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by RARLAB or win.rar GmbH. Read our editorial policy to see how this page was researched.