Zip

Specifications: https://pkware.cachefly.net/webdocs/casestudies/APPNOTE.TXT

The ZIP format is a widely used file compression and archive format that reduces file size while preserving data integrity. It allows multiple files and folders to be bundled into a single archive for easier storage and transfer. ZIP also supports optional encryption and error detection to protect and maintain the contents.

ZIP history: https://www.hanshq.net/zip.html#history

Zip64

ZIP64 is an extension of the standard ZIP format designed to overcome its size limitations. It allows archives to exceed 4 GB and contain more than 65,535 files, which the original ZIP format cannot handle. ZIP64 maintains compatibility with standard ZIP features while supporting very large files and archives.

[local file header 1]
[encryption header 1]
[file data 1]
[data descriptor 1]
.
.
.
[local file header n]
[encryption header n]
[file data n]
[data descriptor n]
[archive decryption header]
[archive extra data record]
[central directory header 1]
.
.
.
[central directory header n]
[zip64 end of central directory record]
[zip64 end of central directory locator]
[end of central directory record]