Keka
Open-source file archiver for macOS with many formats.
Open the official app on www.keka.io
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Use it free
Open the official tool or demo — no account needed.
Self-host it
Run the open-source version on your own infrastructure.
What is Keka?
Keka is an open-source file archiver designed for macOS and iOS devices, enabling users to compress, encrypt, and manage files efficiently. Developed under the GPL-3.0 license, it caters to individuals and teams needing secure data storage and sharing solutions. The tool addresses the challenge of handling large files by reducing their size while maintaining privacy through encryption. Its lightweight design and cross-platform compatibility make it a practical choice for users prioritizing simplicity and security in file management. Keka’s ability to support multiple compression formats and integrate with macOS/iOS workflows positions it as a versatile tool for both personal and professional use cases.
How it works
Keka is a macOS and iOS file archiver that allows users to compress files into formats like ZIP, RAR, 7z, and others. It prioritizes security by enabling password-protected archives, ensuring sensitive data remains private during transfer or storage. The tool is ideal for users who need to manage large datasets, back up files, or share documents securely. Its open-source nature and GPL-3.0 license make it accessible for customization and community-driven improvements. Keka supports drag-and-drop compression, allowing users to select files or folders and create archives instantly. It integrates with macOS docks and iOS workflows, enabling file management. Encryption features let users set passwords to protect archives, with options for AES-256 or similar algorithms.
How to use it
- 1Launch Keka and drag files/folders onto its dock icon or main window to initiate compression. 2. Select the desired archive format (e.g., ZIP, RAR) and enable encryption if needed. 3. Set a password for encryption and confirm the settings. 4. Click 'Create' to generate the archive, which will be saved to the default location. Practical tips include using the 'Archive Browser' to extract files or modify existing archives. For iOS, files can be compressed via the app’s interface or by dragging them to the Keka icon in the Dock.
What it can do
- file archiver
Use cases
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- source: https://github.com/aonez/Keka
- license: GPL-3.0 — free to use
- privacy: Self-hosted — you control your data
Limitations
- Limited support for cloud integration compared to proprietary tools.
- Requires macOS or iOS, excluding cross-platform compatibility with Windows/Linux.
- No built-in password recovery options for encrypted archives.
- Legacy versions may lack features from newer releases, requiring manual updates.
- Depends on system-specific permissions for full functionality.
Understanding the result
Open-source file archiver for macOS with many formats.
Tool details
- Clearly flagged when a network request is needed.
- No account, no sign-up, and no tracking of your content.
- Powered by (GPL-3.0).
- Built with
- (aonez/Keka)
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Runs locally
- No — requires a network request
- Verification
- Not yet verified
- Input
- Query
- Output
- Text
Built with aonez/Keka. OpenToolVault provides the discovery and browser interface while crediting the original project maintainers.
- Built with
- License
- GPL-3.0
Open-source project
OpenToolVault is an independent directory. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by this project.
References
- / — GitHub Repository
Upstream project · GitHub
- GPL-3.0 License
Upstream project
Frequently asked
How does Keka handle encryption for archives?
Keka allows users to set passwords for encrypted archives using AES-256 or similar algorithms. When enabled, the archive requires the correct password to extract files, ensuring data remains private during transfer or storage. The encryption process is integrated into the compression workflow, with options to save passwords securely.
What file formats does Keka support for compression?
Keka supports common compression formats including ZIP, RAR, 7z, and others. Users can select the desired format during the archive creation process. The tool also includes a built-in archive browser for extracting files from supported formats, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of file types.
How do I recover a forgotten password for an encrypted archive?
Keka does not provide a built-in password recovery feature for encrypted archives. If a password is forgotten, the archive becomes inaccessible. Users are advised to store passwords securely or use password managers to avoid data loss. Third-party tools may not reliably recover lost passwords without compromising security.
How does Keka compare to alternatives like 7-Zip or WinRAR?
Keka is specifically optimized for macOS and iOS, offering seamless integration with Apple ecosystems. Unlike 7-Zip (Windows-centric) or WinRAR (proprietary), Keka is open-source and free under GPL-3.0. It supports similar compression formats but lacks cross-platform compatibility. For macOS users, Keka provides a native experience without relying on third-party software.
What should I do if Keka fails to compress a file?
If Keka encounters an error during compression, check for file permissions issues or incompatible file types. Ensure the selected files are not locked or restricted by system settings. For macOS users, verify that the Keka app has full disk access permissions in System Preferences. If the problem persists, try updating to the latest version or reporting the issue on the GitHub repository.