Winrar is a free application which offers us the possibility to compress and unpack any file in a very easy and comfortable way and it doesn't take a long time to do it. The program integrates itself perfectly in the right-button menu, so you will be able to create RAR and ZIP files with no problems, just right-clicking the file -or group of files- and select the 'Add to archive' option.
No matter the format of the compressed file, you'll be able to unpack more than 40 different formats, including CAB, ARJ, LZH, TAR, GZ, ACE, UUE, BZ2, JAR, ISO, RAR, Zip or 7Z, you'll only have to double-click its icon and the content of the file will appear on screen, then choose whether to unpack it or run the files without having to unpack it previously. Furthermore, Winrar offers a very good compression ratio above the average, what means the files you compress using it will be smaller than when compressed using other program. Finally, you can also protect files using Rinjdael (AES-128) encryption system, digital signature or protect it against modifications.
Winrar is probably the best compression tool out there. The high quantity of options, as well as its versatility and easiness of use make it a must have for any user.