Although it may not seem like it, Windows Explorer does not show all the files that are inside some folders . We have prepared this guide so that you know how to view hidden files in Windows 11 using all the methods at your disposal. In addition, we will tell you how to activate the extensions of your files when they are kept hidden and we will talk briefly about the reasons why there are hidden files on your computer.
Index of contents
- How to view hidden files in Windows 11: all methods
- With the file explorer
- With control panel
- How to create hidden files in Windows 11?
- How to see hidden file extensions?
- Why are there hidden files in Windows 11?
- Are hidden files and directories useful for protecting private information?
How to view hidden files in Windows 11: all methods
There are two ways to discover hidden files in Windows 11 . The following sections list all the steps you must take to show the hidden files in the file explorer.
With the file explorer
The easiest option when it comes to discovering hidden files in Windows 11 is with the file explorer. Just go to a directory where you know there are hidden files. Then, click on the View option , located in the upper options bar. Hover the course above Show to see more options.
Click Hidden Items to reveal all the files in the folder.
If there are hidden files, they will appear normally in the directory, although with a transparency effect applied. In this way, it will be easier for you to distinguish between hidden files and those that are shown at all times.
If you want to hide the files again, repeat the process that we have described in this section.
With control panel
Another way to enable hidden files view is through the Control Panel. Although Microsoft is migrating most of the options in this section to the Windows setup application, it is still necessary to use it for certain tasks. Specifically, you must access Appearance and Personalization .
Then, click on File Explorer Options.
In the pop-up window, locate the Hidden files and folders entry in the Advanced settings list . There check the option Show hidden files, folders and drives .
The effect will be exactly the same as in the previous case.
How to create hidden files in Windows 11?
You should know that, in addition to the hidden files and folders that already come with the system, each user can create their own. It is as easy as selecting an item in explorer, opening the context menu with a right click and clicking on Properties .
Then, in the pop-up window, you must check the Hidden box that you will see in Attributes , at the bottom of the list of options. If what you are trying to hide is a folder, Windows 11 will ask you if you want the subdirectories it hosts to also become hidden.
By following these instructions and having disabled the visibility of hidden files, the document or folder will quickly disappear. You must activate the hidden files view to access it again. Remember, on the other hand, that hidden files and folders are accessible at all times by using their full path, such as C: \ Hidden folder \ Hidden file.jpg .
How to see hidden file extensions?
Even if a file has not been marked as hidden, the file explorer takes care that a certain part of its name is not shown. We refer to the extension , which determines the type of file it is. This is a protection to prevent the user from inadvertently changing the extension when renaming the document. In most cases, if this happens, the file is rendered useless until it returns to its original extension.
However, if you want to view the extensions of the documents that you save on your computer, click again on the View button in the upper options bar. Hover over Show and select Filename Extensions .
As can be seen in the following screenshot, the file extensions will be displayed again.
Now you must be careful every time you change the name of a file. In a relatively simple way, you could inadvertently modify the file extension.
Why are there hidden files in Windows 11?
In light of what we have discussed so far, some doubts are likely to arise. Something that is normal for you to wonder is why Windows 11 keeps files hidden within certain directories. And the answer is very simple: it does it for security.
Hidden files in Windows 11 usually correspond to folders, libraries and other documents necessary for the operating system to function properly. By keeping them hidden there is less chance of an inexperienced user deleting, renaming or modifying them. Most of these elements are completely irrelevant to the user and therefore there is no problem in keeping them hidden.
Despite this, and as we have explained in this article, it is possible to discover hidden files very easily. This makes it easier for sysadmins who need to access specific folders to change system behavior. On the other hand, it is an ideal option to really know the total number of directories and documents that are housed within a folder.
Are hidden files and directories useful for protecting private information?
Another thing that we have explained to you in this guide is that anyone can create hidden folders and directories. Perhaps you have come to the conclusion that it is a perfect way to protect private information on your computer . However, nothing is further from the truth. Hidden files and folders remain accessible to all users. It is possible to reach them by route, if it is known. Similarly, the command prompt can list all the items in a directory, even if some of them have been hidden. Finally, remember that invisible files can be discovered using the methods we have mentioned here.
In short, if what you want is to safeguard personal data and increase your privacy on shared computers, it is best to use other methods, such as protecting the folders that contain your data with a password.
