Difference between File Compression and NTFS Compression

Let’s test this using some document files. I’ve compressed the files with the file compression method and file system compression method and screen shots have been taken. Let’s analyze the results and find out.

File Compression

We can use Winzip and Winrar for compressing files. This can be used on FAT32 and NTFS drives. In this method the content of file is compressed based on the type of file and finally reduces the size of the file itself. It also packs the files and folders into a zipped folder. When the file is packed tight, it cannot be used without unpacking. So every time when we open the zipped file, we need to unzip it. This files can be Encrypted. This takes time and reduces performance. To compress files on XP and win2000, Right click on the folder and give, send to compressed folder.

NTFS Compression

We can use this method only on NTFS drives. When files and folder is compressed using this method, it reduces the amount of size required to store on a Disk. This does not alter the file or change its Extension. We can use file without manually unzipping, but when the file is accessed, the windows decompresses and when we close, it compress back to save space. We cannot Encrypt NTFS compressed files. This also does affect performance. To do this, open folder properties, go to Advanced and check mark the compress contents to save disk space and give OK.

These Pictures show what happens by these compression methods. The only point in compressing is to save space. When we compress with winrar or other application we can password protect the compressed file and also encrypt file names.