Show Hidden Files and Folders in Windows Vista
[This tip is for beginners only] Windows Vista hides important files and folders from view to keep users from deleting or otherwise modifying files they shouldn't, but a simple checkbox can change that behavior.
To show hidden files, just click on the Organize button in any folder, and then select "Folder and Search Options" from the menu.
Click the View tab, and then you should select "Show hidden files and folders" in the list.
Just select that, and click OK.
If you are trying to get into the Windows directories, you might want to also remove the checkbox from "Hide protected operating system files" as well.
Note: If you are missing this option entirely, you should follow this guide to restore the option.
The Geek is the founder of How-To Geek and a geek enthusiast. When he's not coming up with great how-to articles, he's probably writing at his personal blog. This article was written on 04/26/07 and tagged with: Windows Vista, Managing Files and Folders
I don't know if you can help me, but I'm running out of hope, so here goes! I cannot delete certain files and folders from my "Vista Home Basic" that came installed on my new pc. I send them to the recycle bin and empty it, only to go back and find the icons still in the same place, except that now, I can't send them anywhere. I have tried installing (unsuccessfully) an unblocker, only to find out that there is an "error debug privleges", so I intalled (again unsuccessfully) "Windows Symbols package" that would not run properly because there in an "error corruption file". I tried to figure out how to find out where this corrupted file is, but I'm exhausted and would be forever grateful for any help anyone can offer me here. I am ready to throw my new computer out the window and go back to the Compaq I've had since 99′!
How do I find and delete index.dat?
Hi !,
I am using Vista Ultimate. Just got rid of Rontokbro.mm virus from my laptop.
I am getting "FOLDER AND SEARCH OPTIONS" greyed out and disabled in the organiize tab.
Even the control panel is showing missing link to the the above option.
I am unable to see and delete certain hidden files. Kindly help.
Aaagh! I have oodles of hidden files which I still can't see, even after following this advice. Vista just keeps them hidden. If I create a file (say, a csv, which is one of the filetypes) and try to save it to a folder, I can see the stuff previously saved - but it becomes invisible again when I try to find it.
This is driving me crazy. I'm on Vista home premium
I backed up my computer but instead of going to Drive "D" it went int to my hard drive "C". I am trying to open the files that woild let me remove them from the hard drive but it hasn't happened yet.
Can you help me.
Thanks
argggh… all those options are hidden. trying to get rid of rontok bro.
Thanx sir this information is really helpful for me.
Thanx again
in the oganize tab, my folder and search options is grey, or inactive or it cannot be clicked.. i tried opening a lot of folders but none still.. i cant open my hidden folders!
tx a mill, help was just 2 the point : )