Windows has two types of files: normal files and hidden files. Hidden files are typically system files that your computer uses to run properly. They can also have been set as hidden by you or another user.
Typically, you shouldn’t need to view or change hidden files. However, if you’re trying to troubleshoot a problem with your computer, you may need to access them. This guide will show you how to show hidden files in Windows 11.
Using View options
- Click Windows + E to open File Explorer.
- Click the View tab on the Ribbon.
Click the View tab. - Head to Show, then select Hidden items. Your hidden files will be visible in File Explorer.
Head to Show, then click Hidden items.
Using Folder Options
- Click Windows + E to launch File Explorer.
- Press the three dots button at the top of the window.
Press the three dots button. - Click Options.
Click Options. - Go to the View tap.
Go to the View tap. - Under the Hidden files and folders section, check Show hidden files, folders, and drives, then click OK. Your hidden files will now be visible.
Check Show hidden files, folders, and drives, then click OK.
Using Settings
- Click on the Start menu and select Settings.
Open the Settings app. - Go to Privacy & security > For developers.
Go to Privacy & security > For developers. - Under the File Explorer section, click Show settings next to Change settings to show hidden and system files.
Click Show settings. - Under the Hidden files and folders section, check Show hidden files, folders, and drives, then click OK.
Check Show hidden files, folders, and drives, then click OK.
Using Command Prompt
-
- Click Start and type “cmd.” Right-click Command Prompt from the results and select Run as administrator.
Right-click the Command Prompt and select Run as administrator. - Type cd followed by a space, paste the directory’s path where you want to list all files, then press Enter.
cd C:UsersNAMEDesktop
Enter the cd command. - Type dir /ah then press Enter. This will list all hidden files in the specified directory.
dir /ah
Type the dir /ah command.
- Click Start and type “cmd.” Right-click Command Prompt from the results and select Run as administrator.