Zip Archives
Zip archives are a widely used file format for data compression and archiving, allowing multiple files and directories to be bundled into a single compressed file with a .zip extension. They use lossless compression algorithms, such as DEFLATE, to reduce file sizes for storage or transmission while preserving original data integrity. This format is supported natively by most operating systems and is a standard for distributing software, sharing documents, and backing up data.
Developers should learn and use Zip archives for efficient file management, such as compressing source code, logs, or assets to save storage space and reduce upload/download times. They are essential for creating software distribution packages, automating backups, and handling data in web applications (e.g., allowing users to download multiple files as a single archive). Tools like zip and unzip commands in Unix-like systems or libraries in programming languages (e.g., Python's zipfile) enable automation of these tasks.