UNIX users will be familiar with TAR files, particularly if they frequently download or share files with other users. They are commonly used for delivering package files or program installers, although they can also be used with Windows platforms. TAR files are often found on UNIX based operating systems. So if you are looking for a space-saving format you will need to combine TAR files with a third party compression software such as WinZip to create, for example, GZIP or Bz2 files.Ī TAR Bz2 file is a lossless compressed archive file type, a kind of TAR file which is usually used for moving software such as video games and operating systems from one device to another. The main difference between TAR files and other archive formats is that they do not compress the files into a smaller space, they simply collate them.

This is usually for the purposes of distributing or archiving, and the name comes from “Tape Archive”, a heritage term from when files used to be stored on physical tapes.Īs well as the files themselves, a TAR file will typically contain the file structure, permissions, dates and hierarchy which makes it useful for storing and cataloging backup files. Rated 5 stars by CNET What is a TAR file extension?Ī TAR file is a type of archive file, used to collect and combine several files into one manageable file.

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