Convert A17 to 7-ZIP

Understanding a17 and 7-zip file formats

A17 files are typically split archive files created by the ARJ compression utility, where the extension indicates a part of a multi-volume archive (e.g., .a00, .a01, ..., .a17). These files are not standalone archives but segments of a larger compressed set. 7-Zip files (with the .7z extension) are compressed archives created by the 7-Zip software, known for high compression ratios and support for various algorithms.

Why convert a17 to 7-zip?

Converting an a17 (ARJ split archive part) to a 7-Zip archive allows for easier extraction, better compression, and improved compatibility with modern systems and archiving tools.

How to convert a17 to 7-zip

Since an a17 file is only a part of a split archive, you must have all parts of the ARJ archive (e.g., .arj, .a00, .a01, ..., .a17) to extract the original files. Once extracted, you can re-compress them into a 7-Zip archive.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Gather all ARJ parts: Ensure you have the main .arj file and all split parts up to .a17 in the same folder.
2. Extract the ARJ archive:
   • Use WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract the contents. Right-click the .arj file and select Extract Here or Extract to <folder>.
3. Compress to 7-Zip format:
   • Select the extracted files/folder.
   • Right-click and choose 7-Zip → Add to archive....
   • In the dialog, set Archive format to 7z and click OK.

Best software for the conversion

• 7-Zip (free, open-source): Handles both ARJ extraction and 7z compression.
• WinRAR: Can extract ARJ split archives, but use 7-Zip for 7z creation.

Summary

To convert an a17 split archive part to a 7-Zip file, first extract the complete ARJ archive using all parts, then recompress the extracted files into a .7z archive using 7-Zip. This ensures data integrity and modern compatibility.