How to view hidden files and folders in Windows 7

July 7, 2011 / By

This very brief tutorial will show you how to view hidden files and folders in Windows 7, which is sometimes necessary to locate certain files.

  1. Start out by clicking the Start ‘Orb’ and select Control Panel from your Start Menu.

    2. control panel icon

  2. In the Control Panel, select the Appearance and Personalization section.

    3. windows 7 Appearance and Personalization screenshot
    click to enlarge

  3. From there, select the Folder Options section.

    4. windows 7 customization and personalization control panel
    click to enlarge

  4. Click the View tab. In the Advanced settings: window, locate the Hidden files and folders entry. Directly below it, make sure that Show hidden files, folders and drives is selected. Note: you may notice an entry titled Hide protected operating system files (Recommended). Make sure to leave this box checked. You do not need to view the hidden and protected operating system files.

    Click OK

    5. windows

  5. That’s it – you’re done. You’ll now be able to view hidden files and folders. Use this ‘power’ wisely – don’t delete or edit files unless you’re certain they’re supposed to be edited :)

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