How to Show Hidden Files In Windows XP/Vista
Configure your PC to View all Hidden Folders
Apr 15, 2009
The Windows XP or Windows Vista operating systems will, by default, have hidden files and hidden folders, which are not readily visible so as to protect them from being modified or deleted accidentally.
However, this functionality is often exploited by viruses, spyware and other forms of malware, so as to hide their presence in the system from the user. In order to detect and delete these malicious programs, Windows will need to be configured to enable viewing of hidden files and folders. Read on to learn how to do this on a Windows XP or Windows Vista system.
Showing Hidden Files For Windows XP
- Click on the Start button and then select My Computer from the Start menu. This opens the My Computer dialogue window.
- Click the Toolsmenu at the top of the window. Select Folder Options from the drop down menu. This opens the Folder Options window.
- Go to the Advanced Settings section.
- Check the option that reads: Display the contents of system folders.
- In the Hidden files and folders, click onthe radio button that reads: Show hidden files and folders
- Uncheck the check box next to these two options: Hide file extensions for known file types and Hide protected operating system files.
- Click on the Applybutton. Click on the OK button.
- Close the My Computer dialog window.
The Windows XP system is now configured to enable viewing of all hidden files.
Quick Tip: To view the files, open the Windows Explorer. To do this, click on the Startbutton, select All Programs, and click Windows Explorer.
Showing Hidden Files For Windows Vista
- Click on the Start button in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen. Select Control Panel from the Start menu.
- This opens the Control Panel in either Classic View or Control Panel Home view: For Classic View, double click on the Folder Options icon and then click the View tab. For Control Panel Home, click the Appearance and Personalization link and then Show Hidden Files or Folders
- Go to the Hidden files and folders section. Click on the radio button that reads Show hidden files and folders
- Remove the check next to these two options below: Hide file extensions for known file types and Hide protected operating system files.
- Click on the Apply button. Click on the OK button.
- Close the My Computer dialog window.
The Windows Vista system is now configured to enable viewing of all your hidden files.
To hide the files and folders again, just go back into the Control Panel window un-check the Show hidden files and foldersradio button.
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