File extraction is a fundamental task for managing and organizing data on your computer. In the macOS environment, file extraction can be efficiently handled using the Terminal application. This article will guide you through the process of extracting files using Terminal commands, which is particularly useful for users who prefer command-line operations over graphical interfaces. By understanding these commands, you can automate tasks, manage files more effectively, and enhance your productivity.

Examples:

1. Extracting ZIP Files: To extract a ZIP file using Terminal, use the unzip command. Here’s how you can do it:

   unzip filename.zip

   This command will extract the contents of filename.zip into the current directory.

2. Extracting TAR.GZ Files: TAR.GZ files are commonly used for archiving and compressing files. To extract a TAR.GZ file, use the tar command:

   tar -xzvf filename.tar.gz

   • -x stands for extract.
   • -z tells tar to decompress the archive using gzip.
   • -v means verbose, showing the extraction process.
   • -f specifies the filename of the archive.

3. Extracting RAR Files: For RAR files, you need to have unrar installed. You can install it via Homebrew:

   brew install unrar

   Once installed, you can extract RAR files using:

   unrar x filename.rar

   The x option is used to extract files with full paths.

4. Extracting 7z Files: Similar to RAR files, you need p7zip for handling 7z files. Install it via Homebrew:

   brew install p7zip

   Then, extract the 7z file using:

   7z x filename.7z

   The x option is used for extracting with full paths.

5. Extracting DMG Files: DMG files are macOS disk image files. To mount and extract a DMG file, use the hdiutil command:

   hdiutil attach filename.dmg

   This command will mount the DMG file, and you can then copy the contents to your desired location.