Allow Viewing of File Extensions in Windows

Certain folders, file types and drives are normally hidden by default. This can make it tricky if you need to edit one of them or at least view them.

How Do I View Hidden Files In Windows?

Here’s how to view hidden files in Windows, depending on which version of Windows you’re using.

Step 1: Windows key and the “x” button at same time

Step 2: Select control panel from the menu that pops up

Showing the Control Panel location in Windows 10

Step 3: Type “folder options” in the top right search box

Step 4: Click Folder Options or Folder or File Explorer Options

Showing the Windows 10 Folder Options

Step 5: Click the View tab at the top of the popup window

Step 6: Click to toggle Show Hidden Files, Folders and drives

Step 7: Click to toggle the option for Hide Extensions for Known File Types

Step 8: Click OK

Showing Windows 10 File Explorer options in Advanced settings

Step 1: Click Start

Step 2: Type Folder Options in the search bar

Step 3: Click Folder Options

Showing the Folder Options location in Windows 7

Step 4: Click View on the box that pops up

Step 5: Ensure that Show hidden files, folders, and drives is enabled

Step 6: Make sure Hide Extensions for Known File Types is not checked

Step 7: Click Apply

Step 8: Click OK

Showing the Folder Options form in Windows 7

Step 1: Go to Start Menu > My Computer

Showing the My Computer icon location in Windows XP

Step 2: Click Tools at top

Step 3: Click Folder Options

Showing Folder Options in Windows XP

Step 4: Click View tab

Step 5: Make sure Hide File Extensions for Known File Types is not checked

Step 6: Click Apply to All Folders

Step 7: Click Apply

Step 8: Click OK

Showing the Windows XP Folder Options Form