This is usually because the modified file timestamps (such as Created Date and Modified Date) were not preserved during extraction. You simply need to re-extract the RAR file you just downloaded (with the modified timestamps) using the recommended method shown on our main page.
Common Causes of Timestamp Loss
1. Incorrect Extraction Method
Most common cause: Using default extraction tools or settings
- Windows built-in extractor: Often ignores timestamp metadata
- Default Extract All: May not preserve file created date and modified date
- Quick extraction: Usually prioritizes speed over metadata preservation
- Third-party tools: Many don't preserve timestamps by default
2. Extraction Software Settings
Improper configuration of extraction tools:
- WinRAR: "Set modification time", "Set creation time" and "Set last access time" is not checked
- 7-Zip: Using wrong extraction method
- Other tools: Timestamp preservation disabled
3. File System Limitations
Target file system doesn't support full timestamp precision:
- FAT32: Limited timestamp precision and range
- Network drives: May not preserve all timestamp attributes
- Cloud storage: Some services modify timestamps during sync
- External drives: File system format affects timestamp support
How to Properly Preserve Timestamps
Method 1: WinRAR (Recommended)
- Right-click on the downloaded RAR file
- Select "Extract files..." (not Extract Here)
- Click on "Advanced" tab in the extraction dialog
- Ensure these options are checked: ✅ Set modification time ✅ Set creation time ✅ Set last access time
- Click "OK" to extract with preserved timestamps
Method 2: 7-Zip (Alternative)
- Right-click on the RAR file
- Select "7-Zip" → "Extract files..."
- The extraction dialog will appear
- Click "OK" to extract (7-Zip preserves timestamps by default)
Verification Steps
After Extraction
- Check file properties: Right-click → Properties → Details
- Verify timestamps: Confirm created date and modified date on your files match your settings
If Timestamps Are Still Wrong
- Use different extraction tool: Try WinRAR if you used 7-Zip, or vice versa
- Check file system: Ensure target location supports full timestamps
- Extract to different location: Try extracting to your main hard drive
Technical Details
How Timestamps Are Stored
- In RAR archives: File timestamps (created date and modified date) are stored as metadata alongside file data
- Precision: RAR format supports full timestamp precision
- Compatibility: Works across different operating systems
Why Default Extractors Fail
- Performance optimization: Skip metadata processing for speed
- Compatibility concerns: Avoid potential timestamp conflicts
- User expectations: Most users don't need precise timestamps
- Default behavior: Prioritize extraction success over metadata preservation
Prevention Tips
Best Practices
- Always use recommended extraction methods shown on our main page
- Verify file dates after extraction
- Keep the RAR file until you confirm created date and modified date are correctly changed
- Document your settings for future reference
Tool Recommendations
- Primary: WinRAR with proper settings
- Secondary: 7-Zip as backup option
- Avoid: Windows built-in extractor, quick extraction options
Troubleshooting Guide
If Extraction Fails
- Check RAR file integrity: Modify again if necessary
- Try different extraction location: Use local drive instead of network/external
- Update extraction software: Ensure you have latest version
- Check permissions: Ensure write access to extraction location
If Timestamps Are Partially Correct
- Created date or modified date wrong: Re-extract files with proper settings
- Some files correct, others wrong: File system or extraction tool inconsistency
- Times off by hours: Timezone handling issue during extraction
By following the proper extraction methods, you can ensure that the precise file dates you set using our tool are perfectly preserved on your extracted files.