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To see hidden items in File Explorer, select View > Show > Hidden items. This changes what Explorer displays; it does not necessarily clear the Hidden attribute from the files or folders. To remove that attribute from specific items, use the built-in attrib command with -h.
Show hidden items in File Explorer
Use this when you want to browse hidden files and folders without changing their attributes:
- Open File Explorer.
- Select View > Show > Hidden items.
File Explorer will display items marked hidden. To use the Folder Options route, select View > Options > Change folder and search options, open the View tab, and select Show hidden files, folders, and drives. Microsoft documents both routes in its File Explorer guidance.
Remove the Hidden attribute from selected items
If you want an item no longer to be marked hidden, use Command Prompt’s built-in attrib command. Microsoft describes it as a command that “Displays, sets, or removes attributes assigned to files or directories.” The -h option clears the Hidden attribute.
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- Open Command Prompt.
- Enter
attrib -h "C:pathtofolderfile.ext", replacing the example path with the exact item you want to change. - Press Enter, then check the item in File Explorer.
For a folder, specify its exact path. Microsoft documents additional /s and /d options for applying changes to files in subdirectories and to directories. They can affect many items, especially when combined with a wildcard or broad path, so avoid using them unless you have confirmed the intended scope. See Microsoft’s attrib command reference.
Which method should you use?
| Method | What it changes | Use it when |
|---|---|---|
| File Explorer’s Hidden items setting | Whether Explorer displays hidden items; it does not necessarily clear their attributes. | You want to view hidden items while browsing. |
attrib -h |
The Hidden attribute on the specified item. | You want a selected file or folder no longer marked hidden. |
If files disappeared unexpectedly
A hidden attribute is a visibility setting, not proof that a file is malicious or harmless. Unexpectedly hidden files can be a reason to investigate, but do not by themselves establish that a device is infected. MITRE ATT&CK describes the use of hidden files and directories by adversaries and identifies suspicious use of attrib.exe or PowerShell to set hidden attributes as a detection signal; see Hide Artifacts: Hidden Files and Directories.
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You can scan a specific file or folder with Windows Security: right-click it and choose Scan with Microsoft Defender. Depending on the interface, you may first need to select Show more options. Microsoft’s instructions are in Scan an item with Windows Security.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Windows 10 note
The Folder Options instructions remain documented for Windows 10, but Microsoft ended Windows 10 support on 2025-10-14. That support status is separate from the steps for displaying hidden items.
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