View hidden system files and folders in Windows

Updated By - June 27, 2024

In this quick tutorial, I'll show you how to set up Windows to display hidden system files and folders. The process for displaying these files is slightly different in newer versions compared to older versions like Windows XP. In the latest releases, you can find these options in the Control Panel. Before proceeding, remember that system files are hidden for a reason. Be careful and cautious.

How to view hidden system files or folders in Windows

To view hidden files Windows, follow these steps for your particular version:

To View Hidden Files Windows 11 and 10

  1. Open File Explorer: You can do this by pressing Win + E or clicking the File Explorer icon on the taskbar.
  2. Access the View Tab: In File Explorer, go to the top menu and click on the "View" tab.
  3. Show Hidden Items: In the "View" tab, find and check the box for "Hidden items" in the "Show/hide" section. This will display hidden files and folders.
    view hidden files windows
  4. Show Protected Operating System Files:
    • Click on "Options" on the right side of the "View" tab to open the "Folder Options" window.
    • In the "Folder Options" window, go to the "View" tab.
    • Scroll down and uncheck "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)."
    • A warning message will appear; click "Yes" to confirm.
    • Click "OK" to apply the changes.

Windows 7

  1. Open Folder Options: Click on the Start button, then go to the Control Panel. In the Control Panel, click on "Appearance and Personalization" and then "Folder Options."
  2. Show Hidden Files, Folders, and Drives:
    • In the "Folder Options" window, go to the "View" tab.
    • Under "Advanced settings," find and select "Show hidden files, folders, and drives."
  3. Show Protected Operating System Files:
    • Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)."
    • A warning message will appear; click "Yes" to confirm.
    • Click "OK" to apply the changes.

Windows XP

  1. Open Folder Options: Click on the Start button, then go to the Control Panel. In the Control Panel, click on "Appearance and Themes" and then "Folder Options."
  2. Show Hidden Files and Folders:
    • In the "Folder Options" window, go to the "View" tab.
    • Under "Advanced settings," find and select "Show hidden files and folders."
  3. Show Protected Operating System Files:
    • Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)."
    • A warning message will appear; click "Yes" to confirm.
    • Click "OK" to apply the changes.

You should now be able to view hidden system files, hidden files and folders in Windows. Remember to be careful when handling hidden system files, as they are hidden to prevent accidental modifications that could affect your system's stability and performance.