File Extension Database

Open BZIP File

BZIP is a file extension that represents compressed files using the Burrows-Wheeler block sorting text compression algorithm and Huffman coding. This type of file format is renowned for its high compression ratio while maintaining a fast processing speed. The essential need for file compression has made BZIP a popular choice, especially with files of substantial size -- varying from server files, system logs, database dumps, and more. It's designed to compress single files only. If you're working with multiple files or a directory, you'll need to combine it into a TAR archive first before compressing it into a BZIP file.

How to Open BZIP Files

The procedure of opening BZIP files largely depends on the operating system used. Here, we'll discuss the most common operating systems and how to open BZIP Files in each.

Opening BZIP Files on Windows

For Windows users, you would need to install a reliable compression/decompression software, like 7-Zip. 7-Zip can handle various types of compressed files, including BZIP. After installing this software, you can easily open a BZIP file by right-clicking on the file, selecting 7-Zip, and then "Extract Here".

Opening BZIP Files on MacOS

Mac users don't need to install any additional software as MacOS has a built-in utility which can open BZIP files. Users can simply use the "Archive Utility.app" to decompress a BZIP file. Users also have the option of using the Terminal to decompress BZIP files by typing "bunzip2" followed by the filename.

Opening BZIP Files on Linux

If you're using Linux, opening a BZIP file is a cakewalk. Similar to MacOS, you can use the command line. Typing �bunzip2� followed by the filename will effortlessly decompress the BZIP file.

Advantages and Disadvantages of BZIP Files

The BZIP file format comes with significant pros and cons, which users should know depending on their specific needs.

One huge advantage of BZIP files is its high compression ratio. It can squeeze large amounts of data into a smaller size, which aids in saving disk space or when transmitting data over the network.

On the downside, while BZIP files provide excellent compression, the process can be significantly slower compared to other formats like GZIP. Therefore, if speed is a critical consideration, a user may opt for another compression format.

BZIP File Important Information

Understanding the nuances of BZIP files can make working with them significantly easier. As previously mentioned, it's designed to compress single files. If you need to compress multiple files or folders, typically, you would need to integrate it with a TAR archive. There's also careful consideration needed in choosing BZIP due to its slower speed despite its optimum compression ratio. Therefore, in choosing BZIP, users need to consider their specific needs and whether they position the compression ratio over speed or vice-versa.

Nevertheless, it's crucial to have a grasp of BZIP files especially when working with large files or data. From decompressing files to developing vast databases, BZIP files can significantly make the process easier, efficient, and save substantial amounts of disk space.

How Can I Open BZIP File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open BZIP file is to find a BZIP file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a BZIP file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open BZIP file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as BZIP file opener then try to search online for "BZIP viewer", "application to open BZIP file" or "open BZIP file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open BZIP file

How Can I Open BZIP File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a BZIP file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a BZIP file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with BZIP file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as BZIP file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open BZIP file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open BZIP file then try to search for "BZIP viewer", "application to open BZIP file" or "read BZIP file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read BZIP file

How Can I Open BZIP File on Android

If you downloaded a BZIP file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded BZIP file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "BZIP".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "BZIP viewer", "BZIP file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open BZIP File on iPhone or iPad

To open BZIP File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the BZIP file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "BZIP". This way you can find apps which can open BZIP files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "BZIP viewer" or "BZIP file" online in your favorite search engine.

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.