Someone actually paid for WinRAR—here’s how the company reacted

WinRAR, the popular file compression software, has been around for nearly 30 years and has developed a reputation as the “eternal shareware.” Despite its free trial offering, very few users have actually shelled out money for a license. So, when someone finally decided to pay for it, the reaction from the company was something you wouldn’t expect.

The WinRAR Phenomenon

If you’ve ever had to unzip files on your computer, there’s a good chance you’ve used WinRAR. Developed by Russian programmer Eugene Roshal back in 1995, it’s become one of the go-to tools for extracting files from compressed archives. The software has always been a shareware—meaning it comes with a free trial period, after which users are encouraged to pay for a full license.

However, here’s the catch: despite the prompts to buy a license, WinRAR has never enforced the payment. Users are simply asked to consider supporting the developer by purchasing a license, but there are no restrictions after the trial period. As a result, it’s estimated that most people who use WinRAR over its nearly 30-year lifespan have never spent a single penny on it.

Paying for WinRAR: A Developer Takes the Plunge

Then came a moment that shook the status quo. A developer named Luca D’Amico, an Italian programmer, made the bold move of paying for WinRAR on June 1st. In a tweet that proudly displayed a €25.57 invoice, D’Amico announced: “This day has finally arrived. My WinRAR trial has ended,” complete with a heart emoji.

It was a seemingly small gesture, but one that caught the attention of the WinRAR team. The company responded with a lighthearted message on Twitter: “Look what Luca D’Amico did! Finally, a full member of the WinRAR family!” This playful response sparked a variety of reactions online, from admiration for D’Amico’s decision to skepticism about the €25 price tag for a software that some still see as outdated.

WinRAR’s Reputation and Sense of Humor

WinRAR’s Twitter account is known for its sense of humor. When Microsoft announced that Windows 11 would soon natively support ZIP, RAR, and TAR.GZ files, WinRAR posted a meme with the text, “This is fine,” an iconic reference that sent the internet into fits of laughter.

But how seriously should we take this? Is WinRAR really in any trouble with the rise of integrated compression tools in newer operating systems like Windows 11? It’s hard to say. The company has always maintained a low profile, but despite the changes in the industry, WinRAR still enjoys a solid user base. Many businesses even purchase WinRAR licenses for their employees, and the company’s annual revenue is believed to range between $15 to $25 million.

WinRAR’s Future in the Age of Windows 11

While Windows 11‘s native support for file compression could certainly reduce the need for standalone tools like WinRAR, it’s unlikely to fully eliminate its user base. Some people simply prefer the familiarity and additional features WinRAR offers. Moreover, the free trial system has made it a long-standing staple for many, and as shown by Luca D’Amico, there will always be those who see value in supporting the software financially.

In the end, this event is more than just about paying for software—it’s a reminder of how even the most unassuming tools can inspire loyalty, humor, and, sometimes, a touch of self-reward. Whether you’re a WinRAR user or not, it’s clear that this quirky program is more than just a utility; it’s part of a digital culture that’s been with us for decades, one compressed file at a time.