TGZ File Extension

TGZ file icon

Gzipped Tar Format

What is a TGZ file?

The TGZ file extension is linked to Gzipped Tar Format and belongs to the Compressed Files category, which includes 820 files.

TGZ file support extends to various operating systems, including Linux, Windows and Mac OS. If you need to extract a TGZ file, you can use one of 14 programs, such as Gzip, WinZip and Zipeg.

MIME types

  • application/gnutar
  • application/x-tar
  • application/x-compressed

How to open a TGZ file?

If you’re having difficulty opening a TGZ file, it is often due to not having the correct software. To solve the problem, choose a compatible program from the list. Then follow the link to the official developer site, download the software, and install it on your device.

When it comes to opening and working with TGZ files, Gzip, WinZip and Zipeg are the top choices for users. If you need the newest version of WinRAR, just access the win.rar GmbH website. From there you can download the installer compatible with all systems.

When you finish installing WinRAR, the system will automatically launch TGZ files with it.

Set WinRAR as the default TGZ application

Changing Default Programs in Windows

  1. Right-click your TGZ file, then navigate to the "Open With" option and click "Choose Another Application" to continue;
  2. From the options listed in the pop-up window, specifically choose WinRAR as the application to handle your TGZ file;
  3. Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK" to save your preference.

Change the default app that opens a file on Mac

  1. Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired TGZ file to open a menu where you can choose from multiple actions;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, you will see the "Enable" menu. It is already set to the default option, "Recommended Programs";
  4. Within this menu, select "All Programs" and then search for WinRAR. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

Troubleshooting guide for TGZ file complications

When facing challenges with TGZ files, simple adjustments in your software can often solve the problem. Find helpful troubleshooting guidance below.

What can lead to sudden WinRAR crashes?

WinRAR crashes can occur due to outdated software versions. To mitigate this, install the latest updates for win.rar GmbH products.

Restarting your computer is a crucial troubleshooting measure that can alleviate numerous common problems. Therefore, it is advisable to restart your computer before modifying any settings related to the software.

What is the recommended approach to repair a damaged TGZ file?

Open the damaged TGZ file with a recovery program, and then select the "Repair" menu item to start the repair process. Then wait for the recovery process to complete, which allows you to automatically repair corrupted compressed files.

What are the telltale signs of a corrupt TGZ file?

Common indications of damaged TGZ compressed files are:

  • Unexplained increase in TGZ file size;
  • File hangs or crashes in WinRAR or other programs;
  • The file does not open or opens with errors;
  • While working with the file, error messages appear;
  • Editing the archive in Gzip results in slow or unresponsive behavior;

How to edit a TGZ file?

To edit TGZ files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the compressed files. Online TGZ editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for Gzipped Tar Format.

Best TGZ editors in 2026

After analyzing the criteria, we have created a list of TGZ editors available for use.

TGZ Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
TAR-Linux4.6 out of 5 (39 reviews)
ALZipESTsoftWindows, Mac OS4.4 out of 5 (40 reviews)
GzipJean-loup GaillyLinux4.4 out of 5 (38 reviews)

Convert to and from TGZ

If handling a TGZ file is problematic, consider converting it to alternative formats such as ZIP, TAR, RAR, CAB, DEB or other supported types.

Keep in mind that converting a TGZ file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.

Convert TGZ to other file formats

Converting Files to TGZ Format