JAR vs ZIP: What's the Difference (and Can You Convert)?

A JAR is a ZIP with extra rules. See what makes JARs different, when renaming .jar to .zip works, and how to open either format in your browser.

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