Introduction to PeaZip Project
PeaZip is a versatile and free file archiving utility designed for users across multiple platforms, such as Linux, macOS, and Windows. This tool efficiently handles over 200 archive formats, including popular ones like 7z, rar, tar, zip, and many more. It goes beyond simply compressing or decompressing files by offering the ability to handle spanned archives, support various encryption standards, and perform file hashing. Furthermore, PeaZip allows users to export tasks as console scripts, enhancing its utility for power users and developers.
Cross-Platform Compatibility and Technology
The PeaZip project is committed to being a cross-platform solution, leveraging a graphical user interface (GUI) that serves as a frontend for many open-source technologies, such as 7-Zip, FreeArc, PAQ/ZPAQ, and more. This focus ensures that users have robust tools for comprehensive file and archive management, along with advanced security features like strong encryption, two-factor authentication, an encrypted password manager, and secure delete capabilities.
PeaZip stands out as a truly cross-platform application, providing a free LGPLv3 licensed alternative to other proprietary software such as WinZip and WinRar. It operates as a native application across different systems, including Windows/Win64, Wine/ReactOS, Linux x86/x86-64, macOS on Intel x86_64, and the aarch64 architecture (such as the M1 Apple Silicon SoC).
Building PeaZip
For those interested in contributing or customizing PeaZip, building the application from source is made straightforward with available resources. The source code can be accessed in the peazip-sources Git directory, with comprehensive instructions provided within. These guides detail the process of compiling and creating packages for various operating systems.
PeaZip is built using Lazarus/FreePascal, with Windows installers created using InnoSetup, noted for its Pascal-like syntax, which makes the development process smoother for those familiar with these languages.
Useful Resources
For those wanting to explore more about PeaZip, several resources are available:
- Downloads: The latest PeaZip releases can be found at PeaZip Downloads.
- Add-ons and Plugins: Enhance PeaZip's capabilities through additional plugins, such as UNRAR5 and UNACE, available here.
- Compiling and Building Guide: Detailed information on building PeaZip from source can be accessed here.
- Support and Help: Assistance and frequently asked questions are documented at PeaZip Help and FAQ.
- Translations: Contributions in translations can be coordinated via GitHub PeaZip Translations.
PeaZip is not just an archiving tool; it represents a community-driven project focused on providing effective, secure, and open-source solutions for archive management. Whether you're a regular user in need of a reliable file archiver or a developer looking to extend its capabilities, PeaZip offers a flexible and powerful option.