How to View Hidden Files, Folders and System Files in Windows 11

By default, Windows 11 hides some files and folders to prevent accidental deletion or modification—these include system files, configuration files, and hidden user data. If you need to access these hidden items (e.g., to troubleshoot issues, edit settings, or find lost files), this guide will show you 2 simple methods to display them.

Both methods are easy to follow, work on all Windows 11 editions, and don't require any advanced technical skills.

Method 1: Show Hidden Files via File Explorer Ribbon (Quickest)

  1. Open File Explorer (you can use the Win + E keyboard shortcut).
  2. At the top of the File Explorer window, click the "View" tab in the ribbon.
  3. In the "Show" group, check the box next to "Hidden items."
  4. Hidden files and folders will immediately appear in your File Explorer—they will be slightly faded to distinguish them from regular files.
To hide them again, simply uncheck the "Hidden items" box in the same location.

Show-Hidden-Files-via-File-Explorer-Ribbon.jpg

Method 2: Show Hidden Files via Folder Options (Permanent Setting)

This method lets you set hidden files to show permanently, even if you restart your PC. It also gives you control over system files.
  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Click the "View" tab in the ribbon.
  3. Click the "Options" button (it looks like a gear) in the top-right corner of the ribbon.
  4. In the Folder Options window that pops up, go to the "View" tab.
  5. Under "Advanced settings," scroll down and find "Hidden files and folders."
  6. Select the option "Show hidden files, folders, and drives."
  7. Optional: If you need to view system files (which are hidden by default for safety), uncheck the box next to "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)." A warning will pop up—click "Yes" to confirm.
  8. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the settings.
Show-Hidden-Files-via-Folder-Options-Permanent-Setting.jpg

Important Notes

  • Hidden files are usually hidden for a reason—avoid deleting or modifying them unless you know what you're doing. Deleting system files can cause Windows 11 to malfunction.
  • If you no longer need to see hidden files, follow the same steps to re-enable the default hidden setting.
  • Both methods work for external drives (e.g., USB drives) connected to your Windows 11 PC.

Final Tip

If you frequently need to access hidden files, use Method 1 for quick access. For long-term use, Method 2 is more convenient as it saves your preference across restarts.

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