Fix the "ZIP File is Empty” Problem with Simple Ways & a Reliable Tool

When you are trying to open an important ZIP file, you may face some kind of problem. The "ZIP File is Empty” error is one such issue, which shows that the compressed folder does not contain any data. Eventually, it stops you from accessing and extracting your content. It is important for Windows and Mac users to understand the core causes and solutions of the issue to get back their data.

This detailed guide will explain the main reasons and some effective methods to get rid of this issue. Users can avoid this issue from happening in the future by following the simple tips given in this article. Additionally, we will explore an incredible tool that can help you fix your damaged ZIP files.

Part 1. What Are the Primary Causes of the “ZIP File is Empty” Error?

Before diving into the part of the solution, let's understand the main reasons that cause the empty ZIP file issue. Below is a list of some common causes that are responsible for this issue:

1. Incomplete Download: One reason for this issue is that your file may not have been downloaded properly. As a result, you may see your files as empty, and they may even get corrupted.
2. Corrupted ZIP File: Your data can get damaged for various reasons, and you will see errors. When this happens, your system perceives it as empty, as the file's structure is changed.
3. Unsupported Compression Method: Some folders are compressed using methods that are not supported by default extraction tools on your system. Due to this incompatibility, you may see that your downloaded ZIP file is empty.
4. File Permissions: Even if the data is present, your system will show it as empty due to the settings. It happens when you have set any kind of restrictions on file access or the data is not granted with necessary permissions.
5. Hidden Files: On some devices, the ZIP files may not appear because they get hidden due to some settings. Consequently, you may find that there is no data in the compressed folder.

Part 2. 4 Proven Solutions to Fix the “ZIP File is Empty” Error

Now that you know about the potential causes for the issues, it is time to learn some solutions to cope with the compressed zipped folder is empty issue.

Solution 1. Verify the ZIP File Integrity

As said above, your file may get damaged due to various reasons, including incomplete downloads. While you're having this issue, it's essential to confirm your file is completely downloaded. One way to test the integrity or health of your compressed folder is to redownload it from the source. It will help you figure out if the validity of the file is causing the “downloaded ZIP file is empty” issue.

Additionally, you can try a Checksum tool to confirm the state of your file. This tool compares the current state of your file with its expected state and allows you to find out any issues.

Solution 2. Use a Different ZIP Extraction Tool

Apart from file integrity, the default extraction tool may also cause specific issues. These setup tools may not allow certain compression methods to be used in archive folders, and you will see empty ZIP files. In such cases, using an alternative extraction tool can help you get back on track. You can choose from various third-party tools that are available in the market.

These tools work with many compression formats, increasing your likelihood of accessing the content. Make sure the tool is from a reliable source and fits your system.

Solution 3. Try the Repair Archive Feature of WinRAR

When the above methods do not work, you can try the built-in feature of WinRAR. This feature is extremely useful if you suspect your archive files have been compromised. Simply put, it is a feature that lets you repair any issue with your files. By carefully following the steps given below, you can fix the issue that the ZIP file is empty:

Step 1. To get going, open the compressor tool, locate the targeted ZIP file, and click the “Tools” option from the top menu. Then, you need to choose the “Repair Archive” option from the drop-down menu.

Step 2. After that, you’ll notice a pop-up asking you to confirm, and you need to hit the “OK” button. In a few moments, your file will be repaired and saved as a separate file in your storage.

Solution 4. Utilize the Most Powerful ZIP File Repair Tool for Windows & Mac

Different native methods discussed above may not bring the expected results when the reason for the empty ZIP file is corruption. In situations like this, you need to use a third-party tool like Repairit File Repair that can efficiently repair your damaged files without altering the original content. This tool allows you to see the internal hierarchy of the fixed file to verify the results.

Moreover, it will automatically decompress your troublesome file and restore the file to its original state. Whether your files are damaged due to a virus attack or system crash, it can fix all kinds of errors. Apart from archived files, it can repair Photoshop files that get damaged due to a bad sector. Overall, you can restore files of any format as it supports restoring more than 20 formats.

Key Features

1. Garbled Files: Data on some files can get distorted due to malware attacks, and this tool can help you recover it.
2. PDF Repair: Apart from compressed files, you can fix damaged PDF files without changing the original data.
3. iWork: It is the Office version of Apple, and this data repair tool lets you fix files of this program as well.

After learning about the powerful features of this tool, it is time to learn the stepwise guide to use Repairit and fix the "ZIP file is empty” issue:

Step 1. After downloading the software, go to the “More Types Repair” tab from the left sidebar. Then, you need to access the “File Repair” feature to move forward with the restoration process.

Step 2. Now, you need to add a single or multiple corrupted ZIP files in Repairit by tapping the "Add” button.

Step 3. As the ZIP files are added successfully, you need to press the “Repair” button to start the process of restoration.

Step 4. The tool will not take long to fix your files, and you will see results very soon. Now, you can have a look at the results by hitting the "Preview” button and exporting it to your device by pressing the "Save” option.

Part 3. 5 Helpful Tips to Prevent the "ZIP File is Empty" Issue in the Future

Now, keep these simple tips in mind to avoid an empty ZIP file issue in the future:

1. Complete Downloads: Before you try opening the ZIP files, always allow them to download fully. You should also ensure that you use a stable internet connection to reduce download errors.
2. System Maintenance: When you keep your system up to date, it will keep supporting various file formats. Not only do these updates improve the overall working, but they also fix known issues related to files.
3. Regular Scanning: Malware attacks can corrupt your archive files and lead to errors. That is why you need to regularly scan your system with an updated antivirus.
4. Improper Renaming: You should make sure that the ".ZIP" extension remains unchanged when you try to rename your files. The files can become unreadable when you rename them, especially when you change the extension.
5. Backup Files: One way to avoid this issue is to back up your data and archive folders. It ensures that you can restore your files from a safe place in case of any error.

Conclusion

To sum up, the ZIP File is Empty issue can occur due to many reasons, and there are many solutions that you can try. One of the ways is to use WinRAR’s native archive repair feature, as discussed in this guide.

Besides, you can use third-party tools like Repairit to restore your files in a few simple steps. Utilize this highly accurate tool to fix any kind of issues related to archive files.