P7Z file icon

P7Z File Extension

S/MIME Compressed Message

What is P7Z file?

Full format name of files that use P7Z extension is S/MIME Compressed Message. Files with P7Z extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. P7Z file format, along with 236 other file formats, belongs to the Encoded Files category. Users are advised to use Microsoft Outlook software for managing P7Z files, although 1 other programs can also handle this type of file. Software named Microsoft Outlook was created by Microsoft Corporation. In order to find more detailed information on the software and P7Z files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support P7Z file extension

The following listing features P7Z-compatible programs. Files with P7Z extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Programs that support P7Z file

How to open file with P7Z extension?

Being unable to open files with P7Z extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to S/MIME Compressed Message files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with P7Z files.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Outlook software

Install software to open P7Z file The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports P7Z files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Outlook or one of the recommended programs (for example, Mozilla Thunderbird) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Outlook installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Outlook to the latest version

Update software that support file extension P7ZIf the problems with opening P7Z files still occur even after installing Microsoft Outlook, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Outlook is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Microsoft Outlook cannot handle files with P7Z may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Microsoft Outlook should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate S/MIME Compressed Message files with Microsoft Outlook

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Outlook installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage P7Z on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Associate software with P7Z file on Windows

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

  • Right-click the P7Z file and choose Open with option
  • Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
  • The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Microsoft Outlook is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open P7Z files and clicking OK.
Associate software with P7Z file on Mac

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

  • From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with P7Z extension, select Information
  • Open the Open with section by clicking its name
  • Select Microsoft Outlook and click Change for all...
  • Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with P7Z extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the P7Z is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper P7Z file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

Check P7Z file for viruses
1. Check the P7Z file for viruses or malware

If the P7Z is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the P7Z file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the P7Z file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the P7Z file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the P7Z file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with P7Z extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Outlook

If the systems has insufficient resources to open P7Z files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with S/MIME Compressed Message files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the P7Z files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the P7Z file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on P7Z file.

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