JAR vs ZIP – What's the Difference?

JAR files look like ZIP files but aren't the same. Understand the key technical differences, what makes a JAR special, and when to use each format.

The Short Answer

What Makes a JAR Different From a ZIP?

Can You Rename a JAR to ZIP (and Vice Versa)?

Other JAR Variants

When to Use Each Format

Working With JARs and ZIPs

Summary