To show hidden files on Windows 11, open File Explorer, click View in the toolbar, point to Show, and click Hidden items. Hidden files and folders appear right away, slightly faded. To also show protected system files, click the three-dot menu > Options > View tab and uncheck Hide protected operating system files (Recommended).
Below are all the ways to show hidden files in Windows 11, how to unhide a single file, and how to hide files again.
Method 1: File Explorer View menu
- Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
- Click View in the toolbar at the top.
- Point to Show and click Hidden items. A check mark appears.
This applies to every folder. Click Hidden items again to hide them.
Method 2: Folder Options
- In File Explorer, click the three-dot See more menu > Options.
- Open the View tab.
- Select Show hidden files, folders, and drives and click OK.
To see protected system files as well, uncheck Hide protected operating system files (Recommended) on the same tab and confirm. Don’t delete or move these files, and turn the setting back on when you’re done.
Method 3: Settings app
Go to Settings > System > For developers, expand File Explorer, and turn on Show hidden and system files. On some versions, this is under Privacy & security > For developers.
How to unhide a specific file or folder
- Show hidden items using any method above.
- Right-click the file and choose Properties.
- Uncheck Hidden and click OK.
Open common hidden folders directly
- AppData: Press Windows + R, type %appdata% (Roaming) or %localappdata% (Local), and press Enter.
- ProgramData: Type C:\ProgramData in the File Explorer address bar.
Frequently asked questions
Why can’t I see a file even with hidden items on?
It may be a protected system file. Uncheck Hide protected operating system files in Folder Options.
Is it safe to show hidden files?
Yes. Just avoid deleting or editing files you don’t recognize.
How do I show hidden files on Windows 10?
See how to see hidden files on Windows 10.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.