Issues Uncompressing Files on Mac? Here’s How to Fix It:

When working with large compressed files on a Mac, the built-in Archive Utility can sometimes struggle, leading to errors like Error 79. This error typically occurs due to the utility's limitations with handling large files. Fortunately, there are alternative methods and tools you can use to successfully unzip your files.

1. Use Third-Party Apps (More Robust Options)

Option A: The Unarchiver

• Download: Get The Unarchiver from the Mac App Store.
• How to Use: Right-click (or Control-click) the zip file, select Open With > The Unarchiver. The files will extract in the same location or a folder you choose.

Option B: Keka

• Download: Get Keka from the Mac App Store or Keka’s official website.
• How to Use: Drag and drop the zip file onto the Keka icon in the Dock or the Keka window. Keka will extract the files to the same directory or another folder.

Option C: BetterZip

• Download: Get BetterZip from the Mac App Store or BetterZip’s official website.
• How to Use: Right-click (or Control-click) the zip file, select Open With > BetterZip. BetterZip gives you more control over where to extract the files.

2. Use the Terminal (Advanced Option)

If you’re comfortable using the Terminal, you can unzip files with just a few commands:

1. Open Terminal:
   • Press Command + Space, type Terminal, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Your File’s Location:
   • Use the cd command to go to the folder where your zip file is located.
   • Example: If your zip file is in the Downloads folder, type:

     cd ~/Downloads

     and press Enter.
3. Unzip the File:
   • Type:

     unzip filename.zip

     Replace filename.zip with the actual name of your zip file.
   • Press Enter.
4. Find Your Unzipped Files:
   • The files will be in the same folder where the zip file is located.

This guide should help you easily navigate and resolve any issues you might face when uncompressing large files on your Mac.