GZ is single-file gzip compression — the everyday format for logs, datasets and config dumps on Linux and macOS.
Typical use: Unpack a .gz into a normal file or repack it as ZIP/TAR when the receiving tool does not understand gzip.
About the GZ format
A .gz file is one file squeezed by gzip — not an archive. kernel.org tarballs are “tar inside gz”, but plenty of logs, JSON dumps and CSV exports travel as plain .gz. Opening one means decompressing it back to the original bytes.
Repacking into ZIP or TAR gives the decompressed file a container that every GUI tool opens without a second thought.
Strengths
- ✓ Everywhere on Linux and macOS
- ✓ Fast, well-understood compression
- ✓ Streams natively from any tool
Limitations
- ✗ Single file only — no directory tree
- ✗ No encryption or integrity metadata
- Layout
- One compressed member
- Compression
- DEFLATE
- Bundling
- Single file
- Best for
- Logs, dumps, datasets
Convert GZ to…
12 direct directions, sorted A–Z; 🔥 marks popular targets.
Frequently asked questions
What is a GZ file?
GZ is single-file gzip compression — the everyday format for logs, datasets and config dumps on Linux and macOS.
How do I convert GZ files online?
Pick a target format from the "Convert GZ to…" list below, drop your file and hit convert. Everything runs in your browser — no install, no upload, no watermark, no limits.
Is it safe to convert GZ files here?
Yes. Every conversion is performed by your own device inside the browser — files never leave for a server, and the page keeps working even offline.
Which formats can GZ convert to?
This page lists all 12 directions across documents, images, audio, video, spreadsheets and archives — each one is its own free converter page.