Long ago, a Microsoft employee named Dave Plummer decided to write a shell extension to open ZIP compressed files in the new UI of Windows 95 and its file manager. This interesting project, named VisualZIP, later became a native feature of Windows and a red Corvette with the license plate “200-FQU.” Additionally, this includes the reason why ZIP support in Windows 11 is still poor.
In 1993, after creating VisualZIP, Dave received a call from “a lady at Microsoft” who said the company wanted to acquire the project. He had to choose between quitting his job at Microsoft to compete with the company or accepting the “first, best, and only offer.” He chose the latter, and as a result, Windows 95 gained native ZIP support.
After paying taxes, Dave put the ZIP money from Microsoft to good use: he bought a red 1994 Chevrolet Corvette LT1 with a nicely bolted license plate. However, according to the owner, that was the license plate he got by chance.
Dave’s story also enlightens us on the current state of archive file support in Windows 11, which has recently learned how to handle TAR, RAR, 7Z, and other compression types. Decades after its initial release, ZIP support in Windows 11 is at best slow, mainly because the code supporting this feature is 25 years old. Moreover, it doesn’t care how many cores the computer has—the system uses only one thread to handle compressed folders.
Users who often deal with compressed files should continue to use their favorite third-party software, as 7Zip, WinRAR, and other alternatives perform and function much better. However, Dave Plummer’s statement in his post aligns with our conclusion: “Power” users won’t switch, but for the average consumer, the functionality provided by Windows 11 at the native level is more than sufficient.
Disclaimer:
- This channel does not make any representations or warranties regarding the availability, accuracy, timeliness, effectiveness, or completeness of any information posted. It hereby disclaims any liability or consequences arising from the use of the information.
- This channel is non-commercial and non-profit. The re-posted content does not signify endorsement of its views or responsibility for its authenticity. It does not intend to constitute any other guidance. This channel is not liable for any inaccuracies or errors in the re-posted or published information, directly or indirectly.
- Some data, materials, text, images, etc., used in this channel are sourced from the internet, and all reposts are duly credited to their sources. If you discover any work that infringes on your intellectual property rights or personal legal interests, please contact us, and we will promptly modify or remove it.
