how to show hidden files windows 10,How to Show Hidden Files in Windows 10

How to Show Hidden Files in Windows 10

Windows 10, like its predecessors, has a feature that allows you to hide files and folders for privacy reasons. However, if you need to access these hidden files, you’ll need to change some settings. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process step by step.

Accessing the File Explorer Options

Before you can show hidden files, you need to access the File Explorer Options. Here’s how:

1. Open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon on the taskbar or by pressing Windows key + E.
2. Click on the “View” tab at the top of the window.
3. In the “Show/hide” section, click on “Options” in the lower-right corner.
4. Select “Change folder and search options” from the menu that appears.

Changing the View Settings

Once you’re in the Folder Options window, you can proceed to change the settings to show hidden files:

1. Go to the “View” tab.
2. Look for the “Hidden files and folders” option.
3. Click on the drop-down menu next to it.
4. Select “Show hidden files, folders, and drives” from the list.

After making this selection, you may notice that the “Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)” option is checked. If you want to show these files as well, you’ll need to uncheck this box. Be cautious when doing this, as it can potentially expose your system to security risks.

Applying the Changes

After making the necessary changes, you need to apply them to see the hidden files:

1. Click on “Apply” in the lower-right corner of the Folder Options window.
2. Then, click on “OK” to close the window.

Now, when you open File Explorer, you should see the hidden files and folders. If you still can’t see them, try refreshing the File Explorer window by pressing Ctrl + F5.

Using the Command Prompt

For those who prefer using the Command Prompt, here’s how to show hidden files:

1. Press Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the menu.
2. In the Command Prompt or PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:

  dir /a:h /s

This command will list all hidden files and folders in the current directory and its subdirectories.

Using the Registry Editor

Another way to show hidden files is by using the Registry Editor:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following key:

  HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced

On the right side of the window, find the “Hidden” value. Double-click on it and change its value data to 1. Click “OK” to save the changes.

Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to show hidden files in Windows 10, you can easily access the files and folders you need. Just remember to be cautious when changing your system’s settings, as it can potentially expose your system to security risks.