ZL file icon

ZL File Extension

Zlib Compressed Format

What is ZL file?

ZL is a file extension commonly associated with Zlib Compressed Format files. Jean-loup Gailly defined the Zlib Compressed Format format standard. ZL file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Linux, Mac OS, Windows system platform. ZL file format, along with 236 other file formats, belongs to the Compressed Files category. Zlib supports ZL files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 2 other tools may also be used. On the official website of Jean-loup Gailly and Mark Adler developer not only will you find detailed information about theZlib software, but also about ZL and other supported file formats.

Programs which support ZL file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open ZL files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with ZL 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 ZL file

Windows Windows
MAC OS MAC OS
Linux Linux

How to open file with ZL extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening ZL files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with ZL extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with ZL files.

Step 1. Install Zlib software

Install software to open ZL file The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports ZL files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Zlib. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support ZL files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Zlib website and download the installer.

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

Update software that support file extension ZLIf the problems with opening ZL files still occur even after installing Zlib, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Zlib is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why ZL files are not compatible with Zlib. The latest version of Zlib should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Zlib Compressed Format files with Zlib

After installing Zlib (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open ZL files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Associate software with ZL file on Windows

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

  • Right-click the ZL file and choose Open with option
  • 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 Zlib is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open ZL files and clicking OK.
Associate software with ZL file on Mac

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

  • Right-click the ZL file and select Information
  • Open the Open with section by clicking its name
  • From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
  • Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with ZL extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the ZL is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the ZL file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

Check ZL file for viruses
1. The ZL may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the ZL is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the ZL file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the ZL file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Ensure the file with ZL extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic ZL 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 ZL 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 Zlib Compressed Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle Zlib

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Zlib Compressed Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with ZL files affecting older versions of given software.

Conversion of a ZL file

File Conversions from ZL extension to a different format
File conversions from other format to ZL file
Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the ZL 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 ZL file.

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