Although Windows can open and create compressed Zip files, there are still plenty of reasons to consider buying the latest version of Winzip. Although it's not free, Winzip can be used for regular backups and to open compressed files that Windows cannot.

One of the more obvious changes to this new version of Winzip is its ability to display thumbnails images contained in a Zip file.

It is not just appearances that have changed either. Winzip 11 Pro can burn Zip files directly to a CD or DVD. Zip files can also be uploaded to an ftp site. Ftp access is normally included with web hosting packages. While this might present a few potential security issues, it does allow the files to be accessed legitimately from any computer with an internet connection. Regular zipping jobs can be set up to be performed automatically at a certain time of the day too.

A new compression method will shrink files even smaller than before, with the drawback being they won't be compatible with older versions of Winzip. Another addition is support for Rar compressed files; a long overdue feature that most of its competitors already have.

While the Windows file compression utility will be more than enough for most computer users, the new additions in Winzip 11 Pro will make it a worthy buy for some.

Get a trial version of Winzip 11