How to Show Hidden Files and Folders in Windows 11
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To show hidden files and folders in Windows 11, you need to access the File Explorer Options or use the View settings within the File Explorer itself. Here’s how you can do that:
Method 1: Via File Explorer Options
1. Open the File Explorer by clicking on its icon on the taskbar or pressing Windows key + E.
2. Click on the three dots (ellipsis), then select “Options” to open Folder Options.
3. In the Folder Options window, click on the “View” tab.
4. Under Advanced settings, scroll down and locate “Hidden files and folders.”
5. Select the radio button beside “Show hidden files, folders, and drives.”
6. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save changes.
Now, when you navigate through your directories, you should be able to see files and folders that were previously hidden.
Method 2: Via Quick Access in File Explorer
1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on “View” in the menu at the top (it might be represented by an icon with a checkbox in it).
3. In the menu that appears, navigate to “Show” and tick “Hidden items.”
As soon as you tick this box, hidden items will become visible in your File Explorer.
It’s important to note that these methods will make hidden files and folders visible across the system. This is helpful if you need consistent access to such items; however, remember that they are usually hidden for a reason — to prevent accidental modifications or deletions that can affect system behavior. Always proceed with caution when dealing with these files and folders.