How to Fix ERROR_COMPRESSED_FILE_NOT_SUPPORTED Issue

The error ERROR_COMPRESSED_FILE_NOT_SUPPORTED generally indicates that the file in question is either corrupted or the compression tool you are using does not support its format. Fortunately, there are several strategies to resolve this issue, and we’ll guide you through them in a detailed manner.

Steps to Resolve ERROR_COMPRESSED_FILE_NOT_SUPPORTED

1. Fixing File Corruption

1. Launch your preferred file compression tool.
2. Navigate to File and select Open Archive.
   

   

3. Choose the file that is triggering the ERROR_COMPRESSED_FILE_NOT_SUPPORTED notification.
   

   

4. On the toolbar, click on Tools and choose Repair Archive.
   

   

5. Be patient while the repair process runs, then attempt to open the file again.
   

   

Most compression applications offer similar functionalities. If your tool lacks this option, consider switching to one that includes repair capabilities for archives.

2. Recompress the File in a Compatible Format

1. Right-click on the compressed file, select Open with, and choose your compression tool.
   

   

2. Extract the contents and save them to a desired location.
3. In your compression software, select Open and navigate to the extracted folder.
4. Re-archive the contents in a format that your software supports, such as RAR or ZIP.
   

   

5. Attempt to open the newly created archive.

The ERROR_COMPRESSED_FILE_NOT_SUPPORTED message often arises from format incompatibility. Successfully converting the file to a supported format should resolve the issue.

3. Extract the Archive via Command Prompt

1. Identify the folder containing your archived file and copy its path.
2. Press Windows Key + R , then type cmd and hit enter.
   

   

3. Enter the following command: tar -xf "C:\path\to\your\file.zip" -C "C:\path\to\extract\folder" (ensure to replace the file path with your location). Press enter.
   

   

4. Wait until the extraction process finishes, then check the new folder to see if you can access your files.

4. Verify Permissions

1. Right-click the file and select Properties.
2. Click on the Security tab.
3. Select your user account from the displayed list.
4. Inspect the Permissions for area and confirm whether you have Full Control.
   

   

5. If necessary, click Edit and check the box for Full Control.
   

   

6. Click on Apply, followed by OK to save your changes.

By following the instructions above, you should be able to resolve the issue known as ERROR_COMPRESSED_FILE_NOT_SUPPORTED.

This error indicates that operations on the compressed file are not permissible, preventing you from either opening or editing the file. Addressing this problem is essential.

If you’re still facing difficulties, please provide us with additional details in the comments section below.

Author: Egor Kostenko

My goal is to make complex technical topics simple and accessible. On this site, I gather unique and useful content that not only solves users’ problems but also helps them better understand the capabilities of Windows.