- WinRAR was born in 1995 thanks to Eugene Roshal, who created the RAR format to overcome the storage limitations of the time.
- The trialware business model enabled widespread adoption, as companies purchased licenses to meet legal requirements.
- Thanks to its constant innovation, it remains a relevant software with advanced encryption, multiple formats and compatibility with current systems.
WinRAR is more than just data compression software. Over the years, it has managed to conquer a place on the desktops of millions of users around the world. Its history holds fascinating details ranging from Technological advances to business strategies unique that have kept it relevant even in the cloud era.
In this article, we will explore the origin of WinRAR, how its creator turned the limitations of the storage systems of the time into an opportunity, and how a peculiar marketing tactic has turned it into an iconic software. From the 90s to the present day, WinRAR remains a indispensable tool in the digital world.
The origins of WinRAR and its creator
The birth of WinRAR is closely linked to the talent of Eugene Roshal, a brilliant Russian engineer born on March 10, 1972 in the city of Chelyabinsk. With a early interest in technologyRoshal began his journey into programming using a Soviet 8-bit computer called Agat, a local version of the Apple II.
During his studies at the Chelyabinsk State Polytechnic University, Roshal delved deeper into the data compression algorithms, a topic that would later become the focus of his university thesis. In 1993, he created the compression format RAR, an acronym for "Roshal Archive." This format offered significant advantages over its competitors, such as better data encryption, the ability to split large files into more manageable pieces, and the ability to recover data from damaged files.
That same year, he published the first beta version of the RAR decompressor, although at that time it was only available on the command line. It was in 1995 when Roshal released WinRAR, a graphical version of the software that greatly simplified its use and made it accessible to a much wider audience.
The evolution of software and its business model
One of the most notable features of WinRAR is its business model trialware, also known as “try before you buy it.” From its inception, this software allowed users to use all of its features for a 40-day trial periodThe curious thing is that, once this period had expired, the program continued to function normally, although a reminder to acquire the license appeared.
This unconventional strategy proved to be a success. While most home users chose not to pay, many businesses and organizations purchased licenses to comply with the law. This balance between accessibility and profitability was key to WinRAR's financial success.
In 2002, the distribution of the software was transferred to win. rar GmbH, a German company that handles sales and technical support worldwide. This change took place after the death of Ron Dwight, who had been an important partner in the initial distribution of WinRAR outside Russia.
Global impact and localized versions
WinRAR quickly expanded globally thanks to its advanced features and its intuitive interfaceIn Spain, for example, it received early support through networks such as Fidonet, where a specific support area for the software was established in 1995. In November of that same year, the first version translated into Spanish was launched, which facilitated its adoption in Spanish-speaking markets.
Currently, WinRAR is available in more than 50 languages and has versions for multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS and Android. Although its main functionality It remains intact, it has been able to adapt to technological changes over the decades.
Features that make it unique
WinRAR is not only a file compressor, but a Complete suite for data management. Its most notable features include:
- Multiple format support: In addition to RAR format, it also supports ZIP, TAR, 7Z and many others.
- Advanced encryption: It offers AES-256 encryption to protect sensitive information.
- Repair Corrupt Files: A feature that has saved more than one user from data loss.
- Creating self-extracting archives: Ideal for sharing applications or file collections without the need for additional software.
The peculiar phenomenon of the trial period
One of the most curious aspects of WinRAR is its “infinite trial period”. Although the software is initially designed to display a purchase reminder after 40 days, in practice it continues to work without limitations. This has generated a lot of memes and references in popular culture, cementing its status as one of the most beloved and recognizable shows.
Far from being a disadvantage, this strategy has created a loyal user base. Many of them opt for acquire the license as a way to support the project, while others continue to use it with the full functionality it has always offered.
Challenges and adaptations in the modern era
As cloud storage and collaborative applications gain popularity, WinRAR faces new challenges. However, file compression remains a challenge. relevant, especially to optimize the use of bandwidth and local storage.
In response, the development team has incorporated integrations with cloud services and has improved compression algorithms to remain competitive. In addition, it has placed greater emphasis on security, offering more advanced encryption options and compatibility with the latest versions of operating systems such as Windows 11.
WinRAR has managed to remain an essential tool for millions of users thanks to its robust functionality, unique business model and ability to adapt over time. Its history is full of technological milestones and strategic decisions that have made it a benchmark in the world of data compression.