How to view hidden folder in Windows 10?

Viewing Hidden Folders in Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Windows 10 offers a range of features that allow you to customize and control the way your computer behaves. One of these features is the ability to view hidden folders. In this article, we will explore how to view hidden folders in Windows 10, including how to do it in the File Explorer, how to use the Command Prompt, and how to use third-party tools.

Why View Hidden Folders?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly discuss why you might want to view hidden folders. Hidden folders are folders that are not listed in the File Explorer, but can still be accessed and used. This can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as:

• Backup and recovery: Hidden folders can be used to store backup files or restore data in case of a system failure.
• Security: Hidden folders can be used to store sensitive information that you don’t want to access directly.
• Customization: Hidden folders can be used to customize the way your computer behaves, such as by hiding certain folders or files.

Viewing Hidden Folders in the File Explorer

To view hidden folders in the File Explorer, you can follow these steps:

• Open File Explorer: Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
• Click on the View tab: In the top-right corner of the File Explorer window, click on the View tab.
• Select Hidden Items: In the View Options window, select the "Hidden items" checkbox.
• Click on the View button: Click on the View button to apply the changes.

Viewing Hidden Folders in the Command Prompt

To view hidden folders in the Command Prompt, you can use the following command:

dir /b /a-d

• Explanation: The /b option tells the Command Prompt to display only the file names, and the /a-d option tells it to display only the hidden files and directories.
• Example: To view hidden folders in the Command Prompt, type dir /b /a-d and press Enter.

Viewing Hidden Folders in Third-Party Tools

There are several third-party tools available that can help you view hidden folders in Windows 10. Some popular options include:

• Folder Opener: This tool allows you to view hidden folders and files in a more user-friendly interface.
• Hidden Folder Viewer: This tool allows you to view hidden folders and files in a more detailed interface.
• Windows 10 Hidden Folders: This tool allows you to view hidden folders and files in a more visual interface.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you view hidden folders in Windows 10:

• Use the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box: Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, and type dir /b /a-d to view hidden folders.
• Use the File Explorer view options: In the top-right corner of the File Explorer window, click on the View tab and select the "Hidden items" checkbox to view hidden folders.
• Use the Command Prompt view options: In the Command Prompt window, type dir /b /a-d to view hidden folders.

Conclusion

Viewing hidden folders in Windows 10 is a useful feature that can help you customize and control the way your computer behaves. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily view hidden folders in the File Explorer, Command Prompt, and third-party tools. Remember to use the tips and tricks outlined in this article to make the most of this feature.