The Issue
With all due respect to Microsoft, one of the worst features with the later versions of Windows is the “Zone information” of downloaded files. What is this you ask?
When you download a zip file from a web site and attempt to unzip it, you may run into an issue where some of the contents do not get unzipped. This can lead to code not working properly, programs not running correctly, and other wonderfully painful scenarios.
Why does this happen?
To tighten security, Microsoft has included zone-specific information as a part of file’s meta data. This means that downloaded files may be considered a part of the Internet zone, thus requiring tighter security. The way this affects zip files is that it block content that Windows deems a security risk. So when you unzip the file, these unsafe files are excluded. It doesn’t matter what zipping tool you use (WinZip, WinRAR, etc.). This is a Windows security setting.
Zones in Internet Explorer
My problem with this is that there is no warning, so we go about our merry way thinking that all content is intact. That is, until we have serious issues with the unzipped content. At least with Windows User Account Control settings, though annoying, it does tell you what it is blocking.
How to See the Issue
- Right-click on your zip file and select “Properties”
- Click the “Unblock” button
But this will only resolve the issue on this zip file. If you prefer a more holistic approach, here are the steps to disable this feature permanently for your user account
Permanently Disable Zone Security
- Go to Start, Run
- Enter gpedit.msc. This will open up the Local Group Policy Editor
- Then select User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Attachment Manager
- Double-click the “Do not preserve zone information in file attachments” rule
- Select “Enable” and click “Ok”
We hope this avoids some pain for you!