KB Issue
Certain files and folders are hidden from users. These are system files meant to be hidden to prevent users from mistakenly deleting them.
Issue Details
In this article, I will explain how to show these hidden and protected files and folders.
You must realize these files and folders are hidden for a reason, and if you accidentally delete one or more of these files, you could render your computer non-functional.
You may want to consider creating a Restore Point to restore from; if not, you might have to reinstall your computer.
Updated: June 22, 2026
This information in this KB article will work on all Windows OSes to the current Windows Version.
Recreate Issue
Do not show hidden or protected files and folders.
Resolve Issue
[Hide protected operating system files]
  1. Go into [My Computer]
  2. Click on the menu option
  3. [Tools] then [Folder Options]
  4. Click on the [View] Tab
  5. Then click [Show Hidden Files and Folders]
  6. Click [Apply] then [OK]
To go deep and see more files and folders, perform the following
[Show Hidden Files and Folders]
  1. Go into [My Computer]
  2. Click on the menu option
  3. [Tools] then [Folder Options]
  4. Click on the [View] Tab
  5. Then click [Show Hidden Files and Folders]
  6. Uncheck [Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)]
  7. Click [Apply] then [OK]