Windows 7, 8, and 10 - Show Hidden Files and Folders

This document will explain how to show hidden files and folders on your hard drive file system.

CAUTION: Windows stores many important settings in hidden files and folders. Do not modify or delete hidden files if you do not know precisely what will happen as a result. DoIT assumes no liability for data loss that occurs as a result of this procedure.

Procedure

Access the Control Panel.
- Windows 8 users see Windows 8 - Accessing the Control Panel.
- Windows 10 users see Windows 10 - Accessing the Control Panel.
Type "folder" into the search bar and select Show hidden files and folders.
Then, click on the View tab at the top of the window.
Under Advanced Settings, locate "Hidden files and folders." Select Show hidden files and folders just below that.
Click on OK.
Hidden files will now be shown when performing searches in Windows Explorer.
- Note: Hidden files will be greyed out. This is merely to indicate that they are a hidden file. You can still use them as though they were a normal file.