How to Show Hidden Files on Mac?

Mac
1

I’m trying to locate some files on my Mac that I know are there but aren’t visible. How can I show hidden files on Mac? I’m looking for a solution to “show hidden files Mac.”

2

To show hidden files on a Mac, open Finder, then press Command + Shift + . (period). Hidden files will appear as slightly grayed-out icons. Press the same keys again to hide them.

3

To show hidden files on a Mac, follow these simple steps:

  1. Using Finder:

    • Open Finder.

    • Press Command + Shift + Period (.).

    • This will reveal hidden files, which are usually grayed out. Press the same key combination again to hide them.

  2. Using Terminal:

    • Open Terminal from Applications > Utilities.

    • Type: defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles -bool true and press Enter.

    • Then type killall Finder and press Enter to restart Finder and show hidden files.

    • To hide files again, use: defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles -bool false, followed by killall Finder.

These methods help you view system files and folders that are usually hidden to avoid accidental modification.

4

To display hidden files on a Mac, use the Command + Shift + Period (.) keyboard shortcut within Finder. Pressing these keys together toggles the visibility of hidden files and folders, making them translucent when visible. You can hide them again by pressing the same shortcut.