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How to Extract tar gz file in Windows Powershell

A `.tar.gz` file is a compressed archive format widely used on Linux systems. It combines two processes: first compressing files with the gzip algorithm resulting in a `.gz` file and then archiving them using the tar format . This dual approach ensures efficient storage and transfer of large files.

If we are working on a Windows system, we can extract `.tar.gz` files directly using PowerShell, without the need for third-party software. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step by step process

1. First, press Win + X and select Windows PowerShell. Alternatively, search for PowerShell in the Start menu and open it.
2. To access the `.tar.gz` file, we need to navigate to its directory.
3. `.tar.gz` files are both compressed and archived. PowerShell simplifies extraction by handling both layers in one step with the `tar` command:

   tar -xvf yourfile.tar.gz

   Here’s a breakdown of the command:

   • `-x`: Extracts the files.
   • `-v`: Enables verbose mode to display the extraction process.
   • `-f`: Specifies the file to extract.

   So, this command automatically decompresses the `.gz` layer and extracts the `.tar` archive in one operation.

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4. By default, files are extracted to the current directory. If we want to extract them to a specific location, use the `-C` option:

   tar -xvf yourfile.tar.gz -C path\to\output\directory
5. After extraction, ensure the files were successfully unpacked. We can list the contents of the output directory using:

   ls path\to\output\directory

   Alternatively, use the `dir` command:

   dir path\to\output\directory

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Conclusion

PowerShell’s native `tar` command makes it easy to handle `.tar.gz` files on Windows, bridging the gap between Linux and Windows systems. Whether dealing with software archives, backups, or large datasets, this method ensures efficient extraction without additional tools.

In brief, our Support Experts demonstrated how to extract tar gz file in Windows Powershell.