Open TAR files online
TAR bundles files together and GZIP compresses them — the standard pairing on Unix systems. The viewer unpacks them in your browser so you can open or download any file inside.
Drop a TAR file to open it
or click to choose — everything stays on your device
Choose file🔒 100% private — files never leave your browser
What is a TAR file?
TAR bundles files together and GZIP compresses them — the standard pairing on Unix systems. The viewer unpacks them in your browser so you can open or download any file inside. The .TAR extension identifies a Tape Archive / Gzip file, which is served with the application/gzip media type. You can open it here instantly — drop the file into the box above and it renders in your browser. Nothing is uploaded.
Besides this free online viewer, you can open TAR / GZIP files in desktop apps such as 7-Zip, tar (CLI), The Unarchiver — but here all you need is a web browser.
Quick facts
| Format | TAR / GZIP — Tape Archive / Gzip |
|---|---|
| File extensions | .tar .gz .tgz |
| MIME type | application/gzip |
| Developer | Unix |
| Category | Archives |
| Also opens in | 7-Zip, tar (CLI), The Unarchiver |
How to open a TAR file online
- Click Choose file above, or drag your TAR file onto the box.
- The right viewer loads automatically and renders your file.
- Read, scroll or page through it. To open a different file, choose Open another file.
100% private — files never leave your browser.
Libraries used to render TAR in the browser
This viewer is built entirely with open-source JavaScript that runs in your browser:
Frequently asked questions
What is a .TAR file?
A .TAR file is a Tape Archive / Gzip, identified by the application/gzip media type. You can open and read it instantly in the viewer above without installing anything.
What programs open TAR files?
On the desktop, TAR files typically open in 7-Zip, tar (CLI), The Unarchiver. Online, this page opens them in any modern browser — nothing to download.
Is it safe to open my TAR file here?
Yes. The file is read and rendered entirely by JavaScript inside your own browser. It is never uploaded to a server, so nothing leaves your device.
Do I need to install anything to view a TAR file?
No. There is nothing to install and no account to create. Open the page, drop your file, and it displays instantly.
Does it work on my phone or iPad?
Yes. The viewer is fully responsive and works in modern mobile and tablet browsers such as Safari and Chrome.
Is there a file size limit?
There is no hard limit, but very large files depend on your device’s memory. Big files are processed in the background so the page stays responsive.