You download a file that ends in .rar, double-click it, and Windows asks “How do you want to open this file?” or shows a blank icon. Unlike zip files, it will not open in File Explorer. When Windows 10 RAR files won’t open, it is not a fault in your PC; Windows 10 simply does not include support for this format.
RAR is a compressed archive format created for the WinRAR program. Windows 10 can open and create zip files on its own, but it has no built-in RAR extractor. You need a separate program to view and extract the contents.
Even with the right program installed, a RAR file can fail to open if the download was incomplete, the archive is split into several parts, or it is protected by a password.
Installing a trusted extractor and checking the file usually solves the problem.
RAR files are common for large downloads, game slot mahjong mods, and files shared through cloud storage links, so it is worth having an extractor ready.
Why This Happens
RAR files fail to open for these reasons:
- Windows 10 has no built-in RAR support.
- The archive download is incomplete or corrupted.
- The archive is split into parts, such as .part1.rar and .part2.rar, and some are missing.
- The archive is encrypted and needs a password.
Errors like “unexpected end of archive” or “CRC failed” point to damaged or incomplete files.
Start With These Basic Checks
Install a trusted extractor.
- Download 7-Zip from 7-zip.org or WinRAR from win-rar.com, their official websites.
- Install the program and accept the option to integrate with the right-click menu.
- Right-click the RAR file and choose “Extract Here” or “Extract to folder.”
- If Windows still opens RAR files with the wrong app, right-click one, choose Open with > Choose another app, and select the extractor.
- Tick “Always use this app” before selecting OK.
Going a Step Further
Deal with damaged or multi-part archives.
- Check that all parts of a split archive are in the same folder, then extract the first part only.
- Download the file again if extraction reports errors.
- In WinRAR, use Tools > Repair archive for damaged files with a recovery record.
- Ask the sender for the password if the archive is encrypted.
- Scan extracted files with Microsoft Defender before opening them.
A Word of Caution
Archives are a common way to deliver malware, especially those sent by strangers or downloaded from unofficial sites. Be wary of archives containing .exe, .scr, or .js files, and never disable antivirus to extract one.
Final Thoughts
Windows 10 cannot open RAR files by itself. Install 7-Zip or WinRAR from their official sites, make sure all archive parts are present, and scan extracted files before using them.
