Installing RAR for dummies???

[punk_rock_pirate]

Ok, I don't know if I'm just utterly STUPID or something, but I read the sticky for installing RAR and ZIP, an dI totally don't get the RAR part. I can do ZIP (easy), but I can't do RAR.
I have tried:
copying and pasting onto my downloads file
double clicking on it (it says it can't open)

I have no clue, except IDK if i have WinRAR or whatever it's called. How do I get it, because I'm bringing everything from my main computer to my laptop (which doesn't have internet)
So, how do I accomplish this?

[Archduchess Ruby]

Hehehhe sorry, ok you must have a program to open both rar and zips. They are two different programs and we host a verson of both that are free right here (http://www.sapphiresims2.com/showthread.php?t=15453). I will do my best to keep track of this thread while we get you up and running Ok?

[billadam]

I have the windows vista home version and im curiouse how to install a rar file...everytime i try it says: open program with? and i have no idea what to use can anyone let me know what to use/ where to get a rar installer or where i can convert rar to exe thanks

[shadav]

you can download a trial of winrar at rarlab.com, that's what I use it's a great program and it's free
only annoying part is it will continue to ask you to register it or buy it everytime you open the program...just simply close the message and there you go :D

rar works just like zip files, however rar files compress better so it helps download sites save on disk space and banwidth ;) not to mention that rar files tend to have less corruption issues as zip files have

and if for some reason you just don't like rar files rar programs do both rar and zip

[Grand Duchess Emerald]

we also Have a copy on site in programs. RAR are just a more compressed file than zips so easier to use. So download anything that opens rars I put the files on my desk top in a folder and extract them in that folder and then drag them into my download folder. This is for Sims 2. Sims 3 files have to go in the root game disc. If you need that I will explain further. Thanks Hope this helped!