What are self-extracting archives, and how do I handle them?
Most .exe files that you download are self-extracting archives that do not require use of another program to unpack the files. As its name suggests, a self-extracting archive unpacks its own files when you run it. It’s a good idea to unpack the files in a folder set aside for that purpose, such as My Downloads. A self-extracting archive may contain installation files that will be left on your hard drive after you install the program; you’ll want to keep those files in one place so that you can delete them easily later. Back to top of page.
