How to Unzip a GZ File in Windows: 3 Ways

GZ files are compressed archives commonly used on Unix-based systems. You can easily extract them on Windows using tools like WinZip, Command Prompt, or PowerShell (with 7-Zip). This guide walks you through all three methods with clear steps and no guesswork.

How to Extract GZ Files on Windows (3 Easy Methods)

1. Use a Third-Party Tool Like WinZip

If you want a fast, beginner-friendly solution, WinZip is one of the best file archivers that can handle .gz files with ease. It supports RAR, TAR, ZIP, and more, with built-in encryption and cloud sharing.

How to extract GZ files with WinZip:

1. Download and install WinZip
2. Right-click the .gz file you want to extract
3. Select your preferred Unzip option and choose the destination folder

👉 Try WinZip here

Note: By default, the extracted file will be saved in the same location as the archive.

2. Extract GZ Files Using Command Prompt

Windows includes a built-in tool that can handle .gz files using the Command Prompt and the tar command.

If you’re new to this, our Command Prompt guide can help you get more comfortable.

Steps:

1. Press the Windows key, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as Administrator
2. Run this command, replacing the paths with your own:

tar -xvzf C:\PATH\TO\FILE\file-name.tar.gz -C C:\PATH\TO\EXTRACTION

For similar file types, you can also check our guide on how to open TGZ files in Windows.

3. Use PowerShell and 7-Zip to Extract GZ Files

PowerShell doesn’t natively extract .gz files, but you can use it together with 7-Zip for a simple and efficient solution. Make sure 7-Zip is installed first.

1. Press Start, type powershell, and open it with Admin rights
2. Paste the following code into PowerShell:

# Path to 7-Zip executable
$zipExePath = "C:\Program Files\7-Zip\7z.exe"

# Path to your .gz file
$gzFilePath = "C:\Path\To\Your\File.gz"

# Destination folder
$destinationFolder = "C:\Path\To\Extract"

# Build and execute the extraction command
$command = "$zipExePath x $gzFilePath -o$destinationFolder"
Invoke-Expression -Command $command

NOTE

PowerShell itself can’t extract GZ files directly. You’ll need 7-Zip installed to run this method.

If you need more help with file extraction, check our full guide on unzipping files in Windows 11.

Wrapping Up

Whether you use a visual tool like WinZip, the built-in Command Prompt, or a script-based approach with PowerShell, extracting .gz files in Windows is easier than it seems.

If you often deal with archive formats, our list of the best free unzip software for Windows 11 might help you discover new tools.

Which method worked best for you? Let us know in the comments below. We’re here to help if you run into any issues.