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How to Show Hidden Files in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Use File Explorer's Folder Options to show hidden files, folders, and drives in Windows 10—and learn what to check if a file still does not appear.
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To show ordinary hidden files and folders in Windows 10, open File Explorer, go to View > Options > Change folder and search options, then select Show hidden files, folders, and drives under Advanced settings and choose OK.

Show hidden files in Windows 10

  1. Open File Explorer by selecting its taskbar or Start menu icon, or press Windows key + E.
  2. Select the View tab.
  3. Select Options, then Change folder and search options.
  4. In the Folder Options window, select the View tab.
  5. Under Advanced settings, select Show hidden files, folders, and drives.
  6. Select OK to apply the change.

Hidden items should now appear in File Explorer. Microsoft’s current File Explorer instructions also describe a shorter View > Show > Hidden items route. The Folder Options route above uses the explicit Windows 10 setting name; labels can vary slightly by build or language.

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If the file is still missing

This setting changes what File Explorer displays; it does not restore a deleted, moved, or otherwise absent file. Search This PC for the filename and follow Microsoft’s guidance for finding files after an upgrade. Microsoft notes that hidden files are one possible reason a file may not be visible, but the appropriate next step depends on why it is missing.

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Keep protected system files hidden

This walkthrough is for ordinary hidden items. Do not enable visibility for protected operating-system files as a routine troubleshooting step, and do not move, delete, or edit unfamiliar files just because they appear. If you are copying files as part of Microsoft’s corrupted-profile procedure, follow its specific warning: “Do not change File Explorer view options to show hidden files and folders or show hidden protected operating system files.” See Microsoft’s corrupted user profile instructions.

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Windows 10 support status

Microsoft says support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025. See the support status on its File Explorer page.

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