Some files in Windows 10 may be hidden by the system. Here’s how to hide and display them.
Microsoft’s operating system has built-in functionality for hiding entire files and directories. While the operating system can decide to hide items on its own, it is also possible to hide files and folders manually. Once hidden, the files are invisible when you browse in File Explorer, but also when you use the Windows search engine. Here’s how to show hidden files in Windows 10.
1. Hide items manually
Before you start, be aware that it is possible to hide files or entire directories manually. To do this, right click on the file or folder you want to hide, then enter Properties.
At the bottom of the window, check the Hidden option and click Apply, then click OK. The hidden element should then appear with a transparent effect.
2. Show hidden items
Start by opening a file explorer window. At the top of the window, click on the View menu, then in the banner that appears, on the far right, click on Options then on Modify the options of the folders and Search.
3. Change the folder options
A new Folder Options window appears. Go to the View tab then in Advanced settings, under the heading Hidden files and folders, check Show hidden files, folders and drives and validate by clicking on Apply then OK.
Hidden files and directories are now visible all over the system. To hide them again, return the previous setting to Do not show hidden files, folders or drives.
