Convert ARC to CAB

Understanding ARC and CAB file formats

ARC is a legacy compressed archive file format that was popular in the 1980s and early 1990s for bundling and compressing files. It is now largely obsolete, replaced by more modern formats like ZIP and RAR. CAB (Cabinet) files are a Microsoft-developed archive format used primarily for software installation packages and Windows system files. CAB files support compression and digital signatures, making them suitable for secure software distribution.

Why convert ARC to CAB?

Converting ARC files to CAB format can be useful for compatibility with modern Windows systems, software deployment, or to take advantage of CAB's better compression and security features.

How to convert ARC to CAB

There is no direct one-step converter from ARC to CAB due to the age and rarity of the ARC format. The process typically involves two steps:

1. Extract the contents of the ARC file using an archive utility that supports ARC, such as WinRAR or PeaZip.
2. Re-compress the extracted files into a CAB archive using a tool like MakeCab (built into Windows) or IZArc.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Open your ARC file in WinRAR or PeaZip.
2. Extract all files to a folder of your choice.
3. On Windows, open Command Prompt and use the makecab utility:
   makecab file1 file2 ... output.cab
4. Alternatively, use IZArc:
   File → New Archive, select CAB as the format, and add your extracted files.

Recommended software for ARC to CAB conversion

• WinRAR or PeaZip – for extracting ARC files
• MakeCab (Windows built-in) or IZArc – for creating CAB files

Summary

While there is no direct ARC to CAB converter, extracting ARC files and then compressing them into CAB format using the recommended tools is a reliable method. This approach ensures compatibility with modern Windows systems and leverages the advantages of the CAB format.