Show protected operating system files in Windows 7

Windows 7 hides important files and folders by default – they are called protected operating system files. These protected operating system files are not visible in the Windows Explorer. But you can change the settings to make Windows Explorer show these protected operating system files. This article discusses how to show hidden protected operating system files :

  1. Open any folder. Select Organize → Folder and Search options as shown below :

    Opening folder options in Windows Explorer

  2. In the Folder Options window, select the View tab.
  3. Scroll down and un-check the checkbox labeled Hide protected operating system files.

    Show protected operating system files in Windows Explorer

  4. Click OK to save the settings.

You can revert the steps if later you decide not to see the hidden files and folders.