In order to view hidden files in Windows, you must first enable the viewing of hidden files. To do this, go to the Start menu and type Control Panel into the search box (or click on it in the All Programs section). This will bring up the Control Panel window. From here, select Appearance and Personalization, then Folder Options. A new window will appear.
On the View tab, look for the Hidden files and folders section. Here, you can choose to “Show hidden files, folders, and drives”. Once you have done this, click on Apply, then OK to confirm the settings.
When you now browse through your folders, you will be able to see any hidden files or folders. Windows will often hide files or folders that are important or necessary to the system’s core. It may be beneficial to familiarise yourself with a few of these files, as some of them contain vital information about the way your computer works.
You can also use the Command Prompt to examine hidden files and folders. To open the command prompt window, type cmd.exe into the Start menu’s search box, or head over to the Accessories section of the All Programs list. From the Command Prompt window, you can issue an appropriate command to view hidden files. For instance, cd\ followed by dir /ah will list all of the hidden files and folders in the current directory.
Finally, keeping an eye on hidden files and folders is a great way to monitor your system’s security. Check periodically for any unknown processes or unfamiliar files. If you find something suspicious, take appropriate action to make sure your computer’s security is not compromised.