Users of mobile devices are often faced with the need to open an archive downloaded from the Internet or received through a messenger. The format ZIP remains the de facto standard for data compression, saving space and simplifying the transfer of groups of files. However, the built-in tools of some Android shells do not always process complex archives correctly or require the installation of third-party software.
One of the most popular tools for working with the file system for many years was ES File Explorer. Despite changes in developer policies and the emergence of new versions, the functionality of working with archives in this application remains in demand. In this article, we will analyze in detail the process of data extraction, possible errors and nuances of working with plugins.
You will learn how to properly initiate unpacking, where files are saved after extraction, and what to do if the standard function does not work. The instructions are relevant both for older versions of the application and for modifications that support work on modern versions of Android.
Preparing the file and checking the integrity of the archive
Before you start unpacking, you need to make sure that the file itself is loaded correctly. A damaged archive may result in an error during extraction or the appearance of broken files inside the folder. Open ES File Explorer and go to the section where your document is stored, usually a category Downloads or Internal Storage.
Pay attention to the file size and its extension. Sometimes browsers may not save data correctly by changing the extension or interrupting the download in the middle. If the file is 0 KB in size or significantly smaller than expected, repeat the download. Data integrity is a key factor in a successful operation.
It is also worth checking whether the archive is password protected. ES Explorer can work with encrypted ZIP files, but when you try unpacking it will ask you to enter the access key. Without the correct password, you will not be able to extract the contents, even if the application is installed correctly.
⚠️ Attention: If the file was downloaded from an unverified source, it is recommended to scan it with an antivirus before unpacking. Archives are often used by attackers to hide malicious code.
Before bulk unpacking several archives, free up some space in your internal memory. Temporary files can occupy a volume equal to the size of the unpacked data.
Basic unpacking algorithm via the context menu
The easiest way to open the contents of the archive is to use the context menu, which is called up by long pressing on the file icon. This method works in most versions of the interface ES File Explorer and does not require a deep dive into the application settings.
Find the desired ZIP file in the list and hold your finger on it for about a second until the selection checkmark and the bottom toolbar appear. At the bottom of the screen you will see a row of action icons. You need to find a button that says More or an ellipsis icon if the direct unpack button is not displayed immediately.
In the menu that opens, select Extract here or Extract Here. The application will begin the decompression process. If you want to place the files in a specific folder, select the option Extract to... and specify the path manually. This is useful when you need to organize data immediately after extraction.
- 📂 Make sure the app has permission to access storage in Android settings.
- 🔋 Do not lock the screen or minimize the app while extracting large amounts of data.
- 📁 Check the destination path so as not to clog up the root directory with unnecessary folders.
Using the plugin for working with archives
In some versions ES File Explorer the functionality for working with ZIP and RAR is placed in a separate module. If, when you click on a file, the system prompts you to install additional software or displays an error about a missing component, then you need ES ZIP Viewer or a similar plugin.
Usually the application automatically redirects the user to the store Google Play to download the required add-on. However, if the automatic link does not work, you can find the plugin manually through a search inside the explorer itself or in the official application store. Without this component, decryption of compressed data is impossible.
After installing the plugin, restart the main explorer. Now, when you try to open an archive, the system will use the built-in unpacking engine. This is especially true for formats other than standard ZIP, such as 7Z or RAR, the support of which often depends on external modules.
Where can I find a plugin if the Play Market does not offer it?
In older versions of ES Explorer, the plugin could be built-in. In new versions, try downloading the official add-on "ES Zip Viewer" from the same developer. If it is not in the store, the functionality can be integrated into the main application in the "Tools" section.
Setting save paths and memory management
By default, unpacked files are saved in the same directory where the archive itself is located. This creates duplication of data: you are left with the original ZIP file and a new folder with the contents. To save space, it is recommended to immediately delete the archive after successful extraction or change the saving path.
To change the behavior of the application, go to settings ES File Explorer. Find the section responsible for operations with files or archives. Here you can set the default folder for all checkout operations. This is convenient if you want to store all unpacked documents in one place, for example, in a folder Documents.
Keep track of free space. The unpacking process requires a temporary buffer. If the device's memory is full to capacity, the operation may be interrupted halfway, leaving behind incomplete files. Free space Must be at least twice the archive size for comfortable operation.
| Action | Location files | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Extract here | In the archive folder | Delete ZIP after checking |
| Extract to... | Selected by user folder | Use for sorting |
| View without extracting | Temporary application cache | Not suitable for editing |
⚠️ Attention: The interface and location of settings may vary depending on the version of ES File Explorer. In recent updates, some features may have been moved or removed due to changes in Google policy.
Solving common unpacking errors
Users often encounter an error message when trying to open a file. The most common reason is format mismatch. A file may have an extension .zip, but inside it can be an archive of a different type or simply a renamed document. In this case, ES Explorer will not be able to correctly read the file headers.
Another common problem is damage to the archive structure. This happens when the connection is lost during the download. Try downloading the file again, preferably via a stable Wi-Fi connection. If the error persists, try opening the same file on your computer to rule out a problem with the source itself.
It is also worth checking the access rights. On modern versions of Android (starting from 10 and higher), access to the file system is strictly regulated. If you try to unpack a file into a system folder or directory of another application, the operation will be blocked by the security system.
Most unpacking errors are not associated with a malfunction of the application, but with damage to the archive file itself or insufficient free memory on the device.
Alternative methods and third-party solutions
If ES File Explorer for some reason it does not cope with the task, there are always backup options. The built-in file manager of your smartphone (for example Files by Google or a proprietary utility from Samsung/Xiaomi) often has basic support for ZIP archives. Just click on the file, and the system will offer to unpack it.
For complex cases, such as multi-volume archives or highly compressed files, it is better to use specialized utilities. Applications like ZArchiver or RAR RARLAB provide more advanced decompression algorithms and work better with corrupted data.
Don't forget that working with files requires attention. Accidentally deleting an important document when cleaning out folders after unpacking is a common mistake. Always check the contents of the extracted folder before deleting the original archive.
- 🔄 Use ZArchiver to work with 7z and TAR.GZ formats.
- 🛡️ Check files for viruses before running executable scripts from the archive.
- 📂 Create backup copies of important data before mass operations.
⚠️ Attention: Extracting executable files (.apk, .exe) from archives requires special care. Make sure you trust the source, as this is the main vector for the spread of mobile malware.
☑️ Check before deleting the archive
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does ES Explorer ask you to install a plugin to open ZIP?
In the new ones In versions of the application, some functions have been modularized to reduce the size of the main one. The plugin contains codec libraries for working with various compression formats. Its installation is safe and necessary for the unzipping function to work correctly.
Is it possible to unpack the archive if there is no space on the phone?
No, the extraction operation requires free space. The amount of free space must exceed the size of the unpacked files. If there is not enough memory, free it up by deleting the application cache or unnecessary media files before trying again.
What should I do if the archive is protected by a password and I don’t remember it?
Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to bypass the protection of a ZIP archive without a password using standard tools on Android. There are apps for guessing passwords on a PC, but they are time-consuming and do not guarantee success. Without the correct key, you cannot access the data.
Is it safe to use older versions of ES File Explorer?
Using outdated versions downloaded from third-party sites carries security risks. They may contain unpatched vulnerabilities or malicious code. It is recommended to use the current version from the official store or switch to alternative browsers with a good reputation.
Where are the files saved after clicking "Extract here"?
The files are saved in the same folder where the original ZIP archive is located. Usually a new folder is created with a name that matches the name of the archive. The path can be seen in the address bar of the explorer at the top of the screen.