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7-Zip

What 7-Zip does

Using this tool

7-Zip supports analyst workflow support. In this guide, you will use it to inspect and extract a training archive while preserving the original container. Follow the steps below and keep the output with your notes.

Tool guide at a glance

Investigation task

Inspect and extract a training archive while preserving the original container.

Starting material

Clearly labelled working copies and a separate controlled output directory.

What to record

A reproducible supporting result with input, transformation, output, and integrity context.

Evidence and safety

Keep original, working, and derived material separate. Treat links, archives, and files as untrusted when appropriate. Record the input identifier, tool version, relevant commands or settings, time and time zone, output location, and any errors or limitations as you work.

Choose your journey

How the labs complement this guide

The Interactive Lab uses example records to practise investigation decisions. It does not run the installed tool or establish how that version behaves. The Full Lab uses your own training environment and evidence. Obtain or create the required input before starting; a case name in an exercise is not a download.

Accessing 7-Zip in SUSA

7-Zip is a free, open source file archiver software used to compress, decompress, and encrypt files and folders.

In a forensic workflow, use 7-Zip on working copies to package exports or inspect supported archives. Preserve the original archive, record hashes before and after transfer, and extract untrusted content only inside an isolated analysis location.

Download 7-Zip.

Double click the downloaded executable to install 7-Zip. Select Install.

Once the installation is complete, click Close.