zip vs rar

Is the built in extractor in XP for zip files supposed to be able to extract .rar?

 

Unfortunately, no. However, there is freeware, such as 7-zip, that will do the job.

 

Would you recommend 7 zip or winrar?

 

For 64bit Windows, I personally use 7zip, they have a 64bit version available at this link. For 32bit systems which is what most people have, I personally like TUGzip, but 7zip is fine too....

 

I agree. WinRAR is a good program, but it is ~technically~ pay-for. These do the same job (and then some), and don't cost a thing.

 

Would take issue with you there Mada, as WinRAR has the ability to set up 'profiles' - a defined set of files and folders - that can be backed up automatically to a schedule. Don't know about the others but 7-Zip can't do anything like that as far as I can see.

Actually I just hate WinRAR with its truly archaic UI, but in terms of backup functionality it really is unbeatable imo.