The 7z file extension represents an archive format used by the 7-Zip file archiver. It is a popular open-source format known for its high compression ratio, often surpassing other common archive formats like ZIP and RAR. The 7z format employs a variety of compression algorithms, including LZMA and LZMA2, which are particularly effective at reducing file sizes. Beyond compression, 7z archives can also support encryption, allowing users to protect sensitive data with passwords. The format also supports solid archiving, where multiple files are treated as a single data stream for compression, further improving compression efficiency. 7z archives can be split into multiple volumes, making them suitable for distributing large files across multiple storage devices or for easier uploading and downloading. The 7z format is widely supported across various operating systems and is a versatile choice for archiving and distributing files.