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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →To show ordinary hidden files in Windows, use File Explorer’s hidden-items control. In Windows 11, select View > Show > Hidden items. In Windows 10, open Folder Options and select Show hidden files, folders, and drives on the View tab. These are separate from settings that expose protected system files.
Show hidden files in Windows 11
- Open File Explorer.
- Select View > Show > Hidden items.
Hidden files and folders will become visible in File Explorer. Microsoft documents this path in its File Explorer in Windows guidance.
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Show hidden files in Windows 10
- Open File Explorer and select View > Options > Change folder and search options.
- In the Folder Options window, open the View tab.
- Select Show hidden files, folders, and drives, then select OK.
This is Microsoft’s documented Windows 10 route. Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, as noted on Microsoft’s File Explorer help page.
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The steps above show ordinary hidden items. If files appear to be missing after upgrading Windows 11, Microsoft’s upgrade-recovery guidance gives a separate route: open Start > Settings > System > Advanced, expand File Explorer, then turn Show hidden and system files on. This setting is presented for that recovery situation, not as the usual first step for viewing hidden folders.
#1 Best Overall
- 14" diagonal, 1366x768 resolution, HD BrightView LED, Glossy NON-TOUCH Display
Avoid exposing protected operating system files just to make ordinary items visible. In its guidance for copying files from a corrupted user profile, Microsoft specifically warns: “Do not change File Explorer view options to show hidden files and folders or show hidden protected operating system files.” Follow the corrupted user profile instructions for that task instead.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which setting should you use?
| Situation | Use |
|---|---|
| Viewing ordinary hidden files in Windows 11 | File Explorer > View > Show > Hidden items |
| Viewing ordinary hidden files in Windows 10 | File Explorer > View > Options > Change folder and search options > View > Show hidden files, folders, and drives > OK |
| Looking for files missing after a Windows 11 upgrade | Start > Settings > System > Advanced > File Explorer > Show hidden and system files On, as described in Microsoft’s upgrade recovery guidance |
| Copying data from a corrupted profile | Use Microsoft’s profile-copy procedure and do not change hidden or protected system-file visibility options |
Microsoft’s cited instructions cover Windows 10 and Windows 11; they do not establish the current steps for older Windows releases.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- WINDOWS 11 | STABLE PERFORMANCE: Powered by Intel Celeron N4020 processor and Windows 11 system, this laptop delivers stable performance for everyday computing tasks. It supports web browsing, online learning, document editing, email communication, and basic office work with optimized power efficiency, providing a practical and reliable experience for essential daily use for daily use.
- 15.6” FHD IPS DISPLAY: Features a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with narrow bezels, offering wider viewing angles and clearer image details compared to standard panels. The improved screen-to-body ratio enhances visual experience for study, reading, document work, and video playback, making it suitable for both productivity and entertainment use.
- 4GB DDR4 + 128GB eMMC STORAGE: Equipped with 4GB DDR4 memory and 128GB eMMC storage for everyday basics such as browsing, documents, email, and online learning platforms. The built-in TF card slot supports storage expansion up to 1TB, giving you more flexibility for files, photos, videos, and daily documents. TF card not included.
- CONNECTIVITY & PORTS: Includes 1× TF card slot, 2× USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, and 2× full-featured Type-C ports (USB 3.2 Gen1). The Type-C ports support data transfer, charging, and video output, enabling flexible connection with external devices such as monitors, storage, and peripherals for daily work and study use.
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN | ONLINE COMMUNICATION: Designed with a slim, portable profile, this laptop is easy to carry for school, commuting, and travel. A built-in 1MP front camera supports online classes, video meetings, remote communication, and everyday conferencing. The 3300mAh battery works with the low-power system design to support practical daily use, while thermal optimization helps maintain quieter operation during extended tasks.
Rank #2
- 256 GB SSD of storage.
- Multitasking is easy with 16GB of RAM
- Equipped with a blazing fast Core i5 2.00 GHz processor.
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