How to Show Hidden Files on Mac
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Hidden files on a Mac are usually system files that macOS uses to run efficiently, and Apple keeps these files hidden to prevent accidental changes. However, certain situations may require you to access these files. Here’s how you can show hidden files on a Mac:
Using Finder:
1.Open ‘Finder’. It’s the blue, face-like icon in your Mac’s dock.
2.Navigate to your Macintosh HD folder, or wherever you want to find the hidden files.
3.Press `Command` + `Shift` + `.` (dot). The hidden files and folders will appear as dimmed items alongside the normal ones.
Using Terminal:
1.Open ‘Terminal’. You can find it by going to ‘Applications’ > ‘Utilities’ > ‘Terminal’.
2.Type the following command: `defaults write com.apple.FinderAppleShowAllFiles true`
3.Press `Return`.
4.Hold the ‘Option/Alt’ key, then right click on the Finder icon in the dock and click ‘Relaunch’.
To hide the files again, you can either repeat the actions in Finder using the keyboard shortcut or run the Terminal command replacing `true` with `false` and relaunch Finder using the same method.
Remember, it is essential not to edit or delete hidden system files unless you are sure about what you are doing, as this could potentially harm your operating system.
By following these steps, you should now be able to see all hidden files on your Mac. Be cautious when handling these files — they’re hidden for a reason!