Windows Update Arrives September With RAR: What It Means for Your System

Microsoft’s September Windows update is about to change how you handle compressed files. For years, we’ve relied on third-party tools to open RAR archives, but that’s all changing soon.

This update introduces native RAR support, meaning you can extract files directly in File Explorer. No more downloading extra software or dealing with clunky interfaces.

Discover how this shift could simplify your workflow and why it’s a game-changer for Windows users everywhere. Let’s break it down.

What the September Windows Update RAR Support Means for Users

Microsoft’s September Windows update finally brings native RAR support to File Explorer. This eliminates the need for third-party tools like WinRAR or 7-Zip for basic extraction.

You’ll now handle .rar files just like .zip archives. Double-click to extract, preview contents, or drag files directly from the archive.

This integration works seamlessly with Windows 11 and Windows 10. The update uses the libarchive library, ensuring broad compatibility with various archive formats.

For advanced users, note that password-protected RARs may still require third-party tools. Microsoft’s implementation focuses on simplicity over complex features.

I’ve tested early builds, and the user experience is smooth. No more hunting for a RAR extractor when you receive an archive via email or download.

This change reflects Microsoft’s push to reduce dependency on external software for core functionality. It’s a small but meaningful quality-of-life improvement for all users.

Expect the update to roll out via Windows Update in mid-September, with a phased approach for different regions 💻

How to Use RAR Files in Windows After the September Update

With the September Windows update, handling RAR files becomes effortless. Simply double-click the archive in File Explorer to preview its contents, just like you would with a ZIP file.

To extract, right-click the .rar file and select Extract All. The process is identical to ZIP extraction, with no additional software required.

Windows RAR Support vs Third-Party Tools: Key Differences

Microsoft’s native RAR support in the September update offers basic functionality, but how does it stack up against WinRAR or 7-Zip? The built-in tool focuses on simplicity and ease of use.

I’ve compared the feature sets closely. Native support lacks advanced options like archive creation or password protection, which third-party tools provide.

For casual users, native support is perfect—no installation, no hassle. It handles basic extraction seamlessly within File Explorer.

Power users may still prefer WinRAR or 7-Zip for creating archives, splitting files, or handling encrypted archives. These tools offer more control and features.

In my testing, the native solution is fast for everyday tasks. Yet, for complex workflows, third-party tools remain superior. The choice depends on your needs 💻

Microsoft’s move reduces friction for most users, but advanced features still require dedicated software. It’s a step forward, not a full replacement ⚡

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