How to Make Windows 11 Show Hidden Files

There are far more files and folders on your computer than you can see. You don't normally require those hidden files and directories, but if you need, you'll need to unhide them first. By adjusting an option in the new Explorer in Windows 11, you can see hidden files and folders.

1. Open Windows Explorer (Windows Key + E)
2. Click on View
3. Select Show
4. Click on Hidden items to show them

If you now open your Local Disk (C:), you will notice that the ProgramData folder, which is normally hidden, is visible.

Hidden files and folders can be identified by their icon. When compared to standard files and folders in Windows 11, the icons have a slight transparency.

In Windows 11, you can use the registry to make hidden folders visible.

In Windows 11, you can also utilise the registry to display hidden folders. This is important when using a PowerShell script or Group Policy to modify the settings on several PCs.

In Windows 11, you must set the following key to 0 to see hidden files.

To see hidden files and folders, set the secret key to 1.