How to see hidden files in Microsoft Windows

by: Tjolly
5 Star Support Forums

Introduction:

All Microsoft Windows Operating Systems hide certain files from being seen. These files are normally system files and they are hidden so that they cannot be accidentally deleted or changed by the person using their computer. Deleting or changing these system files will cause your computer not to function correctly or indeed not at all. Unfortunately Hijackers and the authors of viruses and spyware hide files in the same manner so that they cannot easily be found, modified or deleted.

Below are the steps that will enable you to see hidden files in each version of the Microsoft Windows Operating System. Please remember that these hidden files are hidden for a purpose and you should not delete or change anything unless you know exactly what you are doing or been advised to do so by someone who does.

To enable the viewing of Hidden files follow these steps:

<>Windows Vista:

Close all programs so that only your desktop is displayed.

1. Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel.

2. Click Appearance and Personalization.

3. Click Folder Options.

4. Click the View tab, click Show hidden files and folders, and then click OK

5. Under the Hidden files and folders section select the radio button labeled Show hidden files and folders.

6. Remove the checkmark from the checkbox labeled Hide extensions for known file types.

7. Remove the checkmark from the checkbox labeled Hide protected operating system files.

8. Press Apply followed by OK and close all open windows.

Windows Vista is now configured to show all hidden files.

To set Vista back to its default settings simply reverse the above procedure.

<>Windows XP:

Close all programs so that only your desktop is displayed.

1. Click Start

2. Click Search

3. Click All files and folders

4. Click More advanced options

5. Under 'Type of File' Click to place a checkmark alongside Search system folders and Search hidden files and folders check boxes.

Windows XP is now configured to show all hidden files.

To set XP back to its default settings simply reverse the above procedure.

<>Windows 2003:

Follow the procedure for Windows XP

<>Windows 2000:

Close all programs so that only your desktop is displayed.

1. Double-click My Computer.

2. On the Tools menu, click Folder Options.

3. Click the View tab.

4. Click to clear the Hide protected operating system files check box.

5. Click Yes when you are prompted to confirm your choice.
   Because protected operating system files have both the System and Hidden attributes, the Show hidden files and folders option must be selected to view these files and folders.

6. Click OK.

To set Win 2000 back to its default settings simply reverse the above procedure.

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