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ADR-0002: Format Provider boundary

  • Status: accepted
  • Date: 2026-08-23

Every archive format is integrated through one Provider boundary. A Provider explicitly reports its browse, extract, create, test, encryption, multipart, and create-input-shape capabilities. Create input distinguishes files-and-directories from exactly one file; read-only formats such as RAR report that creation is unavailable.

  • The UI does not depend directly on compression crates.
  • The CLI and desktop share capability and error models.
  • Both desktop UIs can reject invalid creation sources before opening a destination dialog or starting a Worker.
  • A backend with security or maintenance issues can be replaced.
  • Formats with separate compatibility or licensing questions, including RAR, remain isolated for review.
  • Benchmarks, interoperability tests, and fuzzing can run per Provider.