The hidden AppData/Roaming folder holds tons of app-settings files you might want to modify, for example. Or perhaps you just don’t want your operating system treating you like a child and trying to protect you from yourself.   Here’s how to view hidden files and folders in Windows 10, Windows 7 and Windows 8.1.

  1. Navigate to the control panel. In Windows 10 and Windows 8.1, you can get there by hitting Windows + X and selecting Control Panel. In Windows 7, just click the Start button or hit the Windows logo key.
  2. Select Large or Small icons from the View by menu if one of them is not already selected.
  3. Select File Explorer Options (sometimes called Folder options)
  4. Open the View tab.
  5. Select Show hidden files, folders and drives.
  6. Uncheck Hide protected operating system files.
  7. Click Yes when prompted to confirm.
  8. Click OK.

Customize Windows 10

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Create Custom Keyboard ShortcutsMake Windows 10 Look and Feel Like Windows 7Change the Default Windows FontTurn Off Notification and System SoundsChange Your Desktop Background in Windows 10Change the Icon SizeGive Windows 10 a Dark ThemeMake Your Own Windows 10 ThemeHide Your Name on the Login ScreenAdd Another Column to the Start MenuGet Mac-Like File PreviewsAdd My Computer Icon to DesktopEdit Photos to Fit as BackgroundsAdd Accent ColorsCustomize Autoplay MenuInstall and Delete FontsCustomize the Action CenterDisable Transparency EffectsGet Classic Solitaire and MinesweeperChange the Look of Windows 10 BooksAdd a URL Field to the TaskbarAdd Clocks from Multiple Time ZonesGet the Old Volume Control BackDisable Windows 10 Startup DelayAdd Quick Contacts to the Start MenuShow Hidden Files and FoldersEnable Spatial SoundBest ThemesAll Windows 10 TipsChange the Login Screen BackgroundInstall New Desktop Themes