How do you display hidden or system files?

Answer 1

In Windows 95, 98, ME, 2000, and XP, with Explorer open, select Tools and Folder Options from the top menu. Select the View tab. Click the "Show hidden files and folders" radio button. Uncheck the "Hide protected operating system files" button -- it will warn you about this, accept and click the OK button on the Folder Options window. This will only apply to the current folder; if you want to apply it to every folder on the computer, instead of clicking OK, click Apply, and then click the "Apply to All Folders" button at the top of the window before clicking OK to close the window.

In Windows Vista and 7, open Control Panel and select Folder Options. Click the View tab. Click the "Show hidden files and folders" radio button. Uncheck the "Hide protected operating system files" button -- it will warn you about this, accept and click the OK button on the Folder Options window. In Vista and 7, it applies to all folders automatically.