How to show hidden files on Windows 11 File Explorer

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On Windows 11, there’s an updated version of File Explorer that moves aways from the ribbon menu in favor of a more minimalistic menu with basic commands. As a result, some settings are now more difficult to find, such as the option to show hidden files.

The “View” tab is no longer available in the new File Explorer, but you can still show hidden files and folders within the new menu and using Folder Options.

In this guide, you will learn the steps to show hidden files, folders, and drives in the File Explorer app for Windows 11.

Show hidden files in File Explorer via Layout and view options

To show hidden files in File Explorer, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer on Windows 11.

   Quick tip: You can open Explorer from the Start menu, taskbar button, or using the Windows key + E keyboard shortcut.

2. Click the “Layout and view options” menu (the second menu from the right).

3. Select the Show submenu and check the Hidden items option.

   

   Show hidden items

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Once you complete the steps, hidden files and folders will be visible in File Explorer.

Show hidden files in File Explorer via Folder Options

To view hidden files using the Folder Options settings, use these steps:

1. Open File Explorer.

2. Click the See more (three-dotted) menu and select the Options item.

   

   Windows 11 open Folder Options

3. Click the View tab.

4. Under the “Advanced settings” section, in the Hidden files and folders group, check the Show hidden files, folders, and drives option.

   

   Show hidden files, folders, and drives on Windows 11

5. Click the Apply button.

6. Click the OK button.

After you complete the steps, files and folders with the hidden attribute will now be visible by anyone using File Explorer on Windows 11.