FAQs

Please read through the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for answers to common questions. FAQs are updated on a regular basis so you can return often, if needed.

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1.  I forgot the password for my .zip file(s). What do I do?
PKWARE solutions utilize strong encryption so there is nothing that can be done if you lose or forget your password. It is important to remember your password as PKWARE has no special means for “getting around” the encryption and may not be able to assist in the recovery of an encrypted file.

2.  What is the difference between the Data Compression Library (DCL) and the PKZIP®/SecureZIP® Toolkit?

The DCL provides data compression and decompression functions only. With it you can compress a stream of data and send the compressed data to the destination of your choice.  Destinations include memory buffers, other processes, or files in any format you define.  The DCL does not directly support the .ZIP file format. The Toolkit will allow you to use all the functionality of PKZIP/SecureZIP to create and manage zip files using data compression and/or data security.

3.  Are zip files made by the Toolkit compatible with PKZIP?

Yes, files created by the PKZIP/SecureZIP Toolkit can be uncompressed by PKZIP or SecureZIP for Windows®.

4.  What is the difference between the PKZIP Toolkit and SecureZIP Toolkit?

SecureZIP Toolkit offers all the options of PKZIP Toolkit but also includes the ability to use strong encryption, digital certificates, digital signatures, LDAP integration, and the ability to make Self-Extracting Files (SFX).

5.  I am using Visual C++ 4.0 and the static version 1.x of the data compression library. The following link error occurs after compiling a multi-threaded program: “Default library: LIBCxx conflicts with the use of other libraries.” What should I do?

In the Visual C++ project settings, choose the Link tab. In the input category, in the ignore Libraries Field, enter: LIBC.LIB

6.  Will the PKWARE Data Compression Library work with my compiler? What version do I need?

Here is a list of compilers and the library environments in which they are compatible: Supported Compilers

Microsoft Visual C++ 32bit (6.0) – WIN 32bit

7.  I am compiling in a language other than C or C++, can I use a PKWARE SDK?

Our SDKs can be used with most programming languages; however, you may need to create an integration wrapper to interface between the SDK and your application if you cannot directly call C or C++ routines.

8.  I am getting an exception with error XXXX. Where can I find a list of errors?

All errors are documented in pkstatus.h. This file can be found within the Include folder located in the installation directory. You can also find all errors in the product documentation.

9.  What is the difference between the evaluation version and the purchased product?

The evaluation is fully functional, offering all features of the product. The evaluation can only be used for 30 days from installation.

10.  What platforms are supported by the Toolkit?

Currently the Toolkit is supported under WIN XP, WIN 98, WIN 2000, WIN 2003, and WIN NT.

11.  Are the DCL and PKZIP/SecureZIP Toolkit 64-bit compatible?


The DCL and Toolkit are compiled as 32-bit libraries. They can be used within any application that can link with a 32-bit library. Most 32-bit applications will run unmodified on a 64-bit platform.