PIZ File Extension

What is PIZ file?

PIZ is not a separate file format but more a form of hidden file extension. PIZ is just a ZIP file whose extension name was reversed. This is a simple trick employed to exclude ZIP files from automated scanning. To access the archive you just need to change its PIZ extension back to ZIP. Some archiving tools support this format by default.

Security concerns

The main reason for saving files with PIZ extension is to hide those file from antivirus scanners. Although convenient, it poses a serious security risks. Some malware and computer viruses are distributed using PIZ files. Users should take caution when dealing with PIZ files from unknown sources.

Programs which support PIZ file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PIZ files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. PIZ files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 11/21/2023

How to open file with PIZ extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PIZ files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with PIZ 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. Install WinZip software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PIZ files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install WinZip or one to the listed programs: WinRAR, StuffIt Deluxe. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PIZ files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading WinZip installed is by going to developer’s website (WinZip Computing, S.L.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of WinZip

If the problems with opening PIZ files still occur even after installing WinZip, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software.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 PIZ files are not compatible with WinZip. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using WinZip.

Step 3. Assign WinZip to PIZ files

After installing WinZip (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PIZ files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the PIZ file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where WinZip is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PIZ files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the PIZ file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PIZ extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the PIZ file is complete and free of errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the PIZ file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The PIZ may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PIZ file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the PIZ file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the PIZ file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. When downloading the file with PIZ extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative 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 WinZip

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support PIZ files. Close all running programs and try opening the PIZ file.

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Zipped Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle PIZ files.

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