# Compressing files using cPanel or the command line

> Compress files and folders into zip or tar archives using cPanel's File Manager or the command line.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/developers/linux/compressing-files-using-cpanel-or-the-command-line/

Compressing Files using cPanel or the Command Line

Learn how to save space and speed up file transfers by compressing files. This guide explains two methods for creating compressed files: through **cPanel** or directly from the **command line**.

## Why File Compression Matters

File compression allows you to store and transfer data more efficiently.

- It reduces **disk space usage** for files you rarely use.
- It **speeds up uploads and downloads** when transferring multiple files.

Common compression formats include **ZIP**, **RAR**, **TAR**, and **GZIP**. Below are step-by-step methods to create and manage compressed files on **Ruachost.com**.

## Method 1: Using cPanel

To compress files in **cPanel**, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your **cPanel** account.
2. On the **Tools** page, in the **Files** section, click **File Manager**.
3. In the left sidebar, open the folder containing the files you want to compress.
4. Select multiple files:

   - Hold **Shift** to select a group of files.
   - Hold **Ctrl** to select individual files.
5. Click **Compress** in the top menu bar.
6. In the **Compress** dialog box, choose a compression type (for example, **ZIP**).

> **Note:**\
> ZIP files are best for Windows users because they can be easily opened without extra software.

7. Enter a name for the compressed archive.
8. Click **Compress File(s)**.
9. When the process is complete, a **Compression Results** window appears. Click **Close** to finish.

> **Tip:**\
> To decompress (extract) a file in File Manager, right-click the archive and select **Extract**.

## Method 2: Using the Command Line

If you prefer using SSH, you can compress and decompress files directly from the command line.

1. Log in to your account using **SSH**.
2. Run one of the following commands:

### To Create a ZIP File

```
zip new.zip *
```

This command compresses all files in the current directory.

> **Tip:**\
> To include subdirectories and their files, use the `-r` option:
>
> ```
> zip -r new.zip *
> ```

### To Decompress a ZIP File

```
unzip new.zip
```

### To Create a TAR File

```
tar cvf new.tar *
```

This command creates a tarball of all files and subdirectories.

> **Tip:**\
> To extract a `.tar` file, replace `c` with `x`:
>
> ```
> tar xvf new.tar
> ```

### To Create a GZIP File

```
gzip test.txt
```

This replaces `test.txt` with a compressed version called `test.txt.gz`.

> **Tip:**\
> To compress all files in the current directory and its subdirectories:
>
> ```
> gzip -r .
> ```

### To Decompress a GZIP File

```
gunzip test.txt.gz
```

By using these methods — either through **cPanel** or via **SSH** — you can easily manage file compression on your **Ruachost.com** hosting account.