How to Split a Large File into Smaller Parts Using 7-Zip

Edited 3 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

7-ZipFile SplittingFile ManagementArchivingSoftwarePCWindowsLinuxUser GuideStorageProductivity

Introduction

Managing large files can sometimes be cumbersome and challenging, especially when you need to share, upload, or archive them. Large files can often exceed the size limits imposed by email services or storage drives. However, an effective solution to manage large files is to split them into smaller parts. This process not only makes file handling easier but also increases transfer speeds across different platforms. In this detailed guide, we will delve into the process of splitting large files into smaller parts using 7-Zip software, one of the most popular open-source archiving tools available for Windows, Linux, and other operating systems.

What is 7-Zip?

7-Zip is a free and open-source file archiver capable of handling a wide range of compressed file formats. Featuring its own 7z archive format, 7-Zip is widely recognized for its high compression ratio, making it an excellent tool for reducing file sizes and effectively organizing multiple files into a single archive. 7-Zip is particularly useful when dealing with large files as it allows users to split such files into smaller volumes or increments, suitable for storage, sharing, and faster transmission.

Reasons to split large files

There are several reasons why it may be necessary to split a large file into smaller parts:

• Overcome file size limits: Many email services and online platforms impose file size limits on uploads. Splitting files allows you to overcome these restrictions.
• Improved transfer performance: Splitting files into smaller pieces often results in faster upload and download times, especially if there are interruptions during the transfer process.
• Better organization and management: Smaller file segments can be easier to manage, store, and organize, reducing the risk of data loss during transfer.

Steps to Split a File Using 7-Zip

First, make sure you have 7-Zip installed on your computer. You can easily download it from the official 7-Zip website. Follow the instructions for installation and once you are ready, follow the following steps to split your large file:

Step 1: Open 7-Zip File Manager

Launch 7-Zip File Manager. You can do this by searching for "7-Zip File Manager" in the Start menu or by selecting it directly if a shortcut is available on your desktop or toolbar.

Step 2: Locate and select the file

Using the 7-Zip file manager, navigate to the directory where your large file is located. Click on the file you want to split to highlight it. If your file is large, make sure it is not currently in use by other applications to avoid any problems during the splitting process.

Step 3: Start the Add to Collection window

After selecting your file, click the Add button in the toolbar, or right-click the file and select Add to Archive… from the context menu. This will open the Add to Archive window, where you can access various settings and configurations for creating and splitting archives.

Step 4: Configure Partitioning Options

In the Add to Archive window, you will have several fields and options to configure. Pay attention to the following important aspects:

• Archive format: Choose your preferred archive format. The default is usually 7z, but you can also choose other formats such as zip.
• Compression level: Choose a compression level from options ranging from Store (no compression) to Ultra (maximum compression). Higher compression may require additional processing time.
• Split Volume, Bytes: This is the key setting for splitting your file. Enter the size in bytes or use a shorthand format such as 100M for 100 megabytes or 1G for 1 gigabyte. This will determine the size of each split part.

Step 5: Start the Partitioning Process

After configuring the desired settings, click the OK button to start the partitioning process. Depending on the file size and the settings chosen, the process may take some time. 7-Zip will create the partitioned volume in the same directory as the original file unless you have specified a different path.

Step 6: Verify the split files

After the process is complete, go to the output directory and confirm the creation of multiple split files. Each file will share a common root name followed by sequential extensions like .001, .002, and so on.

Reassemble split files

When you need to restore the original file from its split components, follow these simple steps:

• Make sure all parts of the split files are available and stored in the same directory.
• Open the folder in the 7-Zip file manager.
• Select the first file with the .001 extension and click the Extract button.
• Choose the destination directory where you want to extract the files from and make sure it has enough space.
• Click OK to start the extraction process. 7-Zip will automatically combine the split parts to form the original file.

Example of splitting a file

For practical understanding, consider a scenario where you have a large file named example-large-file.iso that is 4GB in size. You want to split it into 700MB parts.

1. Open the 7-Zip file manager and navigate to the file directory.
2. Select example-large-file.iso, then right-click and select Add to archive….
3. In the Add to Archive window, set the Archive Format to 7z, and in Split Volume, Bytes, input 700M.
4. Click OK to start the partition.
5. Check the newly created files named example-large-file.iso.7z.001, example-large-file.iso.7z.002 in your directory, and make sure each of them is 700MB in size, except the last file which may be smaller.

Conclusion

Splitting large files into smaller parts using 7-Zip provides a practical and efficient way to manage large data files. This process not only helps overcome file size limitations but also simplifies the file transfer and sharing process across different platforms. With the ability to easily split, manage, and restore files, 7-Zip remains an indispensable tool for anyone dealing with massive data. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will be able to handle your large files effectively, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free storage, sharing, and transfer experience.

Keep this guide with you and refer to it whenever you need to split or recombine files using 7-Zip. Whether you want to increase your data management efficiency or simply comply with file size limits, this comprehensive guide equips you with all the necessary knowledge and steps required for successful file handling using 7-Zip.

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