7-Zip, the open-source file compression and extraction tool favored by countless users, has just released version 25 with a handful of performance-centric upgrades.
Foremost, the Windows build can now marshal more than 64 concurrent compression threads. Modern HEDT and server chips—think AMD’s 128-thread Threadripper PRO 7995WX or Intel’s Xeon w9 parts—are split by Windows into multiple “processor groups.” Prior releases were capped at a single group, effectively idling excess cores.
Version 25 dynamically distributes its worker threads across all groups, so every logical CPU can lend a hand when packing large zip, 7z or xz archives, and when running the built-in benchmark.
Moreover, speed-ups are now not limited to mega-core rigs. The bzip2 codec now processes data 15–40% faster, while classic deflate (used in .zip and .gz files) enjoys a 1–3% boost.
Beyond raw horsepower, 7-Zip quietly tightens its handling of several legacy formats. Support for ZIP, CcPIO, and FAT archives has been refined, smoothing edge-case extractions that previously required third-party tools.
Finally, the release rolls in unspecified bug fixes and vulnerability patches. Given the two zero-day disclosures that hit the project late last year, regular upgraders will welcome the extra peace of mind.
For more information, see the changelog.
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