A compressed container that can hold one or many files, often used to save space or bundle related data.

Download the free, open-source 7-Zip utility to view the file's contents without fully extracting them.

The 7z format supports strong AES-256 encryption . If the file asks for a password, its contents cannot be viewed or extracted without the correct key.

Did you from a specific person or find it on a shared drive ?

It can store any file type, including executables ( .exe ), scripts, or document macros, which makes it a potential vehicle for malware. Security Warning