pigz compresses and decompresses gzip data in parallel across multiple processor cores.
pigz
pigz compresses and decompresses gzip files in parallel across multiple processor cores.
About pigz
pigz is a parallel implementation of gzip intended for modern multi-processor, multi-core machines. It is described as a fully functional replacement for gzip that exploits multiple processors and multiple cores when compressing data, and it uses the zlib and pthread libraries. pigz was written by Mark Adler.
Key features
- Compresses data in parallel across multiple processors and cores
- Positioned as a fully functional replacement for gzip
- Source code version 2.8 (19 Aug 2023) available as tar.gz
- Download includes SHA-256 checksum and GPG signature
- Built using the zlib and pthread libraries
- pigz-announce email list for new release notifications
Best for: Users on multi-processor or multi-core machines who want gzip-compatible compression and are prepared to compile the source code.
Good for
- Exploits multiple processors and cores for parallel compression
- Described as a fully functional replacement for gzip
- Source download is published with a checksum and signature for verification
Watch out for
- Distributed as source code; compiling requires reading the README
- Requires the zlib and pthread libraries to compile and use
pigz at a glance
- Website
- zlib.net/pigz
- Category
- Software & Utilities › Linux & Mac Apps
- Type
- Website
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Platforms
- Web
- Open source
- Not stated
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 5, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
pigz alternatives
Tools and sites you could use instead, ranked by how closely they match.
GNU Gzip compresses and decompresses files using the gzip format, with project information from GNU.
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pigz FAQ
How is pigz pronounced?
It is pronounced “pig-zee”, not like the plural of pig.
What does the name pigz stand for?
It stands for parallel implementation of gzip.
What is the latest version shown on the site?
Version 2.8, dated 19 Aug 2023, available as a tar.gz source download of 118K.
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