computer help index
 
 
Search:
"Offering free computer help, hints, and tips to the Internet populace." Now with over 3,490 tips!

Windows Vista - Explorer

Show Protected Operating System Files

SUMMARY: Toggle whether Windows Vista should show protected operating system files when browsing folders in Explorer.

By default, Windows Vista hides protected operating system files from view when browsing folders in Explorer. This is to prevent neophytes (and, ahem, some expert computer users) from damaging important files key to the operation of Windows Vista.

If you are troubleshooting Windows Vista problems such as the possibility that operating system files may have been damaged by viruses or spyware or other malware, you may wish to turn off this setting and show all files. To do so:

1. Do one of the following:

* Click on the "Organize" button in an Explorer folder, and then choose "Folder and Search Options".

* Open a folder in Explorer. Press the ALT key to temporarily show the menu, and then select "Tools" - "Folder Options".

* Click the Windows/Start button, type "folder options", and press ENTER.

2. When the "Folder Options" multi-tabbed dialog box appears, click the "View" tab.


3. Uncheck "Hide protected operating system files (Recommended)" to show the protected files, and click "Yes" on the dialog box when prompted. If such files are visible and you wish to hide them, check this box.

4. Click "OK" to close the dialog box.

 

 
Add: Del.icio.us | Digg | Furl | My Yahoo!
 

Discuss This Tip

Print This Tip

Get E-Mail When New Tips are Online

Return to the Windows Vista - Explorer page.

More in MalekTips:
PowerPoint 2003 - Charts and GraphicsPuttyMicrosoft Access 2003



Rotate Images or WordArtChange the Cursor TypeExpand or Clear Recently Used Files List

RSS Feeds - Subscribe!
 

You want the latest tech tips and tricks in your e-mail Inbox - FREE? Type your e-mail address below and click 'Subscribe'.
 



( sample / details ) ( opt-out instructions )
 


 Free Offer! - Subscribe to the MalekTips computer help list and be one of the first to get new computer tips, articles, and download links! ( privacy policy )  ( opt-out instructions )
This page and its contents are copyright
©1997 - 2009 Envision Programming. ( copyright/disclaimer )

Home | Free Computer Help Newsletter! | Windows | Web Development | DOS and Batch Files | Removing Spyware
Digital Camera and Photography | Computer and Internet | Software | Microsoft Word
Computer Articles | About | Contribute a Tip | Link To Us! | Computer and Technology Links
RSS Feeds |  Contact Us | Advertising | Privacy Policy | Computer Help Forums