GNU cpio
GNU cpio: A free, scriptable choice for legacy cpio and tar archive automation. Ranked #16 of 36 in File Compression Software by our editors (7.9/10); pricing: Free plan; best for legacy cpio and tar automation.
At a glance
- Editor score7.9 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLegacy cpio and tar automation
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Archive encryptionNo
- Founded1983
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Creates, extracts, appends, and copies archive contents
- Supports cpio formats plus old and POSIX.1 tar
- Works with files, tapes, pipes, and remote archive devices
Where it doesn't
- Command-line only, without a graphical desktop interface
- Does not provide encryption support
- Does not provide native split-archive files
Our verdict on GNU cpio
GNU cpio is a free, open-source command-line archiving utility for Unix-like systems and system administrators. It creates and extracts cpio archives, copies files between directory trees, and reads or writes both cpio and tar formats. Its strongest fit is legacy automation where archive operations need to be scripted, combined with GNU find, or directed to files, tapes, pipes, or remote archive devices.
Archive handling is broader than the name suggests. GNU cpio supports binary, old ASCII, new ASCII, CRC, HPUX binary, HPUX old ASCII, old tar, and POSIX.1 tar formats. During extraction, it can automatically detect archive formats, while append support extends existing archives and CRC verification checks values in CRC-format archives. GNU find and rsh integrations also suit workflows that assemble file lists or work with remote archive devices. These capabilities make it useful when format compatibility and command-line control matter more than a desktop interface.
The trade-off is its narrow, traditional focus. GNU cpio is not a graphical desktop compressor, and it does not provide encryption or native split-archive files. It is therefore a better choice for administrators and developers maintaining Unix-style scripts, legacy archive processes, or mixed cpio and tar environments than for users who want visual file management, protected archives, or convenience-oriented desktop features. Choose GNU cpio for free, scriptable archive operations and established format support; choose another tool when encryption, graphical workflows, or native archive splitting are central requirements.
Your product? Our editors can test GNU cpio in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
GNU cpio pricing
GNU cpio fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Archive formats | binary, old ASCII, new ASCII, crc, HPUX binary, HPUX old ASCII, old tar, POSIX.1 tar |
| Archive encryption | No |
| Split archives | Not verified |
| Command-line tools | Yes |
| Portable version | Not verified |
| Archive repair | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | Not verified |
| Integrations | 2 integrations: GNU find, rsh |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | gnu.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
GNU cpio integrations
GNU cpio lists 2 integrations on its own site.
- GNU find
- rsh
Alternatives to GNU cpio
- 7-ZipA free, open-source archiver with broad formats, encryption, recovery tools, and cross-platform support.9.4
- PeaZipA capable free archive manager for desktop users who need broad format coverage and file utilities.9.2
- PowerArchiverA format-rich archive tool for business workflows, automation, and secure file handling.9.0
See all GNU cpio alternatives →
Used GNU cpio? Be the first to review it
The editor score above is our own research. What this page doesn't have yet is a reader's view — what you used GNU cpio for, what worked and what didn't. No stars are seeded and no review is paid for; an editor reads every one before it appears.
Write a reviewTwo minutes · verified accounts only · read by an editor before it appears
Featured on iTechGuides
GNU cpio is listed in our File Compression Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.
<a href="https://www.itechguides.com/products/gnu-cpio/"><img src="https://www.itechguides.com/best/badge/gnu-cpio.svg" alt="Featured on iTechGuides" width="230" height="46"></a>
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Last updated · How we research and update