Hiding sensitive folders or files is an easy way to add an extra layer of security on your Windows computer. There may be many reasons why you want to hide certain files or folders.
Whatever your reasons, Windows makes it simple to hide folders and files in just a few steps. In this guide, you’ll learn several quick methods to hide or unhide folders using File Explorer, Command Prompt, and third party software.
Table of Contents
How to Hide Folder on Windows
Here’s how to hide a folder or file that can be applied on Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.
1. Locate the folder you want to hide.
2. Right-click on it, then select Properties.
3. Check on the Hidden option, click OK.
4. Now the folder/file is hidden.
5. To see the hidden folder/file, go to the View menu.
6. Check on Hidden items.
7. Now the hidden folder/file can be seen again.
The folder icon may look a bit transparent, but it still act like a normal folder and would function normally, except it’s a little hard to find.
You may also exclude certain folders from Windows Search and enable automatic lock on Windows 10 with an Android phone when you are away. Hence, other people can’t just access your personal computer.
Conclusion
Hiding files and folders is a quick and easy way to add an extra layer of security on your Windows computer. Use File Explorer to toggle the hidden attribute, Command Prompt with attrib commands, or third party software for more advanced protection.
Just be aware hidden folders are still accessible if found, so use encryption for your most private data.
FAQs
There isn’t a direct shortcut key to toggle hidden files in Windows 7. However, you can access the option by opening any Explorer window, then choosing Tools | Folder Options, and finally selecting the “Show hidden files, folders, and drives” option under the View tab.
What is the shortcut key for hide folder?
There isn’t a universal shortcut key to hide a folder in Windows. However, some third-party software like “Lock and Hide Folder” allows you to use shortcut keys (CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+S to show folders and CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+H to hide them).
How do I hide files and folders in Windows 7?
To hide a file or folder in Windows 7, right-click on the file/folder, select Properties, and enable the checkbox named Hidden. Then click Apply. If the file or folder still appears, go to Folder Options in Windows Explorer, switch to the View tab, and select the option named “Don’t show hidden files, folders, or drives”.
How do I hide files in Quick Access Windows 10?
To hide a file or folder from Quick Access in Windows 10, open File Explorer, click on Quick Access, select the file or folder you want to hide, right-click on it, and select “Remove from Quick Access”.
