LZH File Extension

What is LZH file?

LZH file contains a file archive compressed using Lempel-Ziv compression algorithm and Huffman encoding, created by Haruyasu Yoshizaki in 1988. This compression method allow users to effectively conserve disk space taken by files. LZH compression was originally used by Amiga systems, but it soon became popular in the East (mostly in Japan) and was supported on other operating systems. Japanese version of Microsoft Windows 7 included a dedicated tool for managing LZH files, while Windows XP offered such a tool as an additional feature.

Single LZH can contain a compressed archive, which can include such data as:

• Files of any format, including executable files,
• Folders structures,
• Stand-alone programs along with configuration files.

Installer files for such popular computers game in the 1990s as Doom or Quake used LHA compression algorithms for game file archives. The .LHA and .LZH extensions are interchangeable. LZH archive may use various compression parameters, which are defines in the file’s header.

Programs which support LZH file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open LZH files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with LZH suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 06/28/2020

How to open file with LZH extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening LZH files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with LZH files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the WinZip

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports LZH files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install WinZip or one to the listed programs: PeaZip, WinRAR, StuffIt Deluxe. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit WinZip website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of WinZip and update if needed

If the problems with opening LZH files still occur even after installing WinZip, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of WinZip is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why LZH files are not compatible with WinZip. The most recent version of WinZip is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign WinZip to LZH files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate LZH files with latest version of WinZip you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the LZH with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where WinZip is installed, check the Always use this app to open LZH files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected LZH file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with LZH extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the LZH for errors

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 LZH file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the LZH file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the LZH file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the LZH file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the LZH file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic LZH file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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 LZH 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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the LZH Compressed Format file.

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

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with LZH extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with LZH Compressed Format files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with LZH files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the LZH 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 LZH file.