Microsoft's Windows operating system is known for its customer service. The developers of this OS did not trust them, and therefore all important files were hidden from the prying eyes of users. On the one hand, this is correct, but on the other hand, it annoys users. Sometimes you just need to find a specific file, but it is not there. How to open hidden folders? The answer to the question will be given in this material. But first, let's try to understand why Microsoft needed to hide some elements.
Why did developers need to make directories invisible?
Let's just say that Microsoft needed all this in the name of the security of Windows itself. For it is the elements of the OS that are invisible to the eyes of users, which contain many things necessary for the normal operation of Windows. The fact is that untrained users unknowingly could delete these things (in the name ofsave space on the hard disk), and then the system would simply stop working. That is, all this is done solely in the interests of the user. But at least the fact that the developers have not removed the ability to see hidden elements is good. And we'll talk about how to open hidden folders.
By the way, the idea to hide folders came from Bill Gates when designing Windows 3.11. You might think that there was something to see. In addition, only a sophisticated programmer could get to these folders at that time, despite the notorious graphical interface. Here in the 95th version of Windows, it was already really necessary to hide folders. The operating system has become much more user friendly. This meant that he could fit in where he shouldn't have. Therefore, protected elements remained and took root in subsequent versions of Windows. Now let's talk about how to open hidden folders.
Using Windows Explorer
So we need to see the invisible content. First of all, launch Windows Explorer. Now click on the required section (C, E or some other). And now the fun begins. We are looking for the inscription "Organize" (somewhere on the top and left) and select "Folder Options". Go to "View", and click "Advanced Options". We are looking for "Hidden files and folders", and put a mark on "Show hidden files, folders and drives". Here is the answer to the question of how to open accessto hidden files and folders. Microsoft has thoroughly hidden content that is not intended for the eyes of "mere mortals".
The above instruction is relevant only for "Windows 7". In the "top ten" things are a little different. After opening the "Explorer" click "View", and select "Options". Then again we pass to "View", and we study the presented information. Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files" and set it to "Show hidden files, folders and drives". After completing all the manipulations, click "OK". This is the answer to the question of how to open hidden folders in Windows 10. Now let's look at another way.
Using Total Commander
This is a two-pane file manager that features high speed. In addition, with its help it is very convenient to perform various operations with files. It's a powerful tool that even comes with its own FTP client. But now is not about that. The beauty of this method is that the file manager does not care what version of the operating system you have. It will equally easily demonstrate protected content on both operating systems. So, how to open hidden folders on drive C using Total Commander?
You need to run the program, and in the upper part of the window find the image of a yellow triangle. It is he who allows you to view hidden content. You just needclick this button and everything will be available. Agree, it's quite simple. But even if there is no such button (perhaps different assemblies), then this operation is easier to do than in Explorer. Select "Configuration", click on the item "Settings". In the navigation window (on the left), select the "Panel Contents" column, and check the box next to "Show hidden files". And this is another answer to the question of how to open hidden folders.
Risks
The user must understand that by opening the protected elements of "Windows", he exposes his OS to a certain risk. One awkward movement of the mouse, and the directory necessary for work will be in the trash. And after a reboot, the system simply refuses to work. If you have already opened access to protected elements, then you need to be especially careful.
Conclusion
So, now you know everything about how to open access to hidden folders. Sometimes it is necessary (even necessary). But it is best to hide them again after you have done what was required. So it will be more reliable. And Microsoft's Windows will last a long time. Protected directories should only be opened when absolutely necessary. For example, you need to clean up the "tails" left over from remote applications, or find the location of temporary Windows data or some programs. In other cases, digging into such directories is not worth it. This is fraught with rather serious consequences, the worst of which will be a completely out of order "Windows". Be careful.
