How to make Windows show all files

STEP 1
Print this page

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STEP 2
Configure Windows to show all files

I use Windows Vista

1
Click the Start button, and then click Computer.

2
On the Organize menu, click Folder and Search Options.

3
Click the View tab.

4
Locate and uncheck Hide file extensions for known file types.

5
Locate and uncheck Hide protected operating system files (Recommended).

6
Locate and click Show hidden files and folders.

7
Click Apply > OK.

I use Windows XP

1
Click Start > My Computer.

2
On the Tools menu, click Folder Options.

3
Click the View tab.

4
Locate and uncheck Hide file extensions for known file types.

5
Locate and uncheck Hide protected operating system files.

6
Under the Hidden files folder, locate and check Show hidden files and folders.

7
If you see a warning message, click Yes.

8
Click Apply > OK.

I use Windows 2000/Me

1
Double-click the My Computer icon.

2
On the Tools menu, click Folder Options.

3
Click the View tab.

4
Locate and uncheck Hide file extensions for known file types.

5
Locate and uncheck Hide protected operating system files.

6
Under the Hidden files folder, locate and check Show hidden files and folders.

7
If you see a warning message, click Yes.

8
Click Apply > OK.

I use Windows 98

1
Double-click the My Computer icon.

2
On the View menu, click Folder Options.

3
Click the View tab.

4
Locate and uncheck Hide file extensions for known file types.

5
In the Advanced Settings box, under the Hidden files folder, locate and check Show all files.

6
If you see a warning message, click Yes.

7
Click Apply > OK.

Document ID: 2002092715262339
Last Modified: 02/09/2007
Date Created: 09/27/2002
Operating System(s): Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows XP
Product(s): TS_GEN