How to Enable Show Hidden Files and Folders

3 January 2008 140 Comments

By default, MS Windows hides files and folders that are associated to its system. This is a precautionary measure to prevent changes and accidental deletion on important Windows files.

There are instances that even personal files and folder are set hidden for unknown reasons. Some malware will modify Windows configuration to prevent users from changing the settings of Show Hidden Files and Folders under Folder Options. A typical Trojan can make specific changes to your system settings to serve its own purpose.

These steps will help you regain access to concealed files and folders.

A: How to Enable Show Hidden Files and Folders Through Registry

1 . Go to Start > Run
2. Type regedit on the box
3. On Registry editor navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Explorer\Advanced\Folder\Hidden\SHOWALL

4. On the right pane, delete the value with

• Name: CheckedValue
• Type: REG_SZ
• Data: 2

5. Create a new DWORD. Right-click on the right pane > New >DWORD Value

6. Value should be:

• Name: CheckedValue
• Type: REG_DWORD
• Data: 1 

B: Download The Configuration File

1. Download folderoption.reg.
2. Save it in your Desktop or any folder where you can easily access it
3. Go to your Desktop
4. Double-click the folderoption.reg
5. If it prompts if you want to add the information on the registry, click YES
6. It will confirm that information was successfully entered into registry, click OK
7. You should now be able to modify Show Hidden Files and Folders settings.

C: Enable Show Hidden Files and Folders Using Free Tool

RRT or Remove Restrictions Tool is a free tool to enable access to different Windows process disabled by virus infections.

This tool is used to enable access to:
- Registry Tools (regedit)
- Ctrl+Alt+Del
- Folder Options
- Show Hidden Files

Download RRT: http://download.sergiwa.com/security/2/RRT.exe

Also see How to Enable a Disabled ‘Files and Folder Options’