How to show hidden files on Mac

Files on your computer may be hidden due to a combination of Finder settings, Terminal commands, and underlying system configurations.

These files often contain critical system settings, application preferences, or temporary data. However, mistakenly downloaded malware may exploit these same settings, burying itself within folders or files users don’t typically see. Be very careful when viewing hidden files as they can cause system instability or data loss if mishandled.

As a casual user, you’ll only need to unearth hidden files if you need to troubleshoot system issues, investigate suspicious activity, or locate a specific file. Follow along and learn how to reveal concealed files on your Mac. Just remember to double-check before modifying or deleting unfamiliar files to prevent unintended consequences.

Use Finder to show hidden files on Mac

Once you open a folder in Finder, simultaneously press Command + Shift + Period to show any hidden files. If successful, hidden files will appear in the folder and look muted. If you don’t see any muted files, it’s likely there aren’t any in that particular folder.

When you’re done, you can rehide hidden files by pressing Command + Shift + Period again.

Use Terminal to show hidden files on Mac

You can use Terminal on Mac computers to enter a command to modify your settings and show hidden folders and files. This option will permanently reveal hidden files until you enter another command to conceal them again.

To view hidden files on a Mac using Terminal, follow these instructions:

1. Open a folder with hidden files and Terminal. You can keep the two windows open beside each other.
2. Copy and paste defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles YES into the Terminal window and press the return key. If this command doesn’t work for you, use defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles -bool true (this command is becoming increasingly common).
3. Paste killall Finder into the Terminal window and hit return again to relaunch Finder, revealing hidden files.

If you want to re-hide the files, type defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles NO into the Terminal window and press return, then relaunch Finder with the killall Finder command.

Use third-party software to show hidden files on Mac

If Finder doesn’t work for you and Terminal seems too daunting, you can use third-party file manager apps like Commander One, Funter, Forklift, or TotalFinder to view hidden files.

These options often provide a more user-friendly interface, making it easier to navigate and manage files — even the hidden ones.

When would you want to view hidden files on a Mac?

Viewing hidden files on your Mac can be useful for troubleshooting, customization, or security checks. But remember, modifying or deleting hidden files can cause system instability, so always research a file or folder before making changes.

• Troubleshooting: Locate hidden files that might be causing errors or view log files for debugging.
• Customization: Use hidden files to customize your computer settings.
• Security checks: Search for hidden files that contain viruses or other malware.

Root out sneaky and malicious files

Norton AntiVirus Plus can help protect your Mac from hidden malware. Mac computers typically hide system, application support, and user preference files for security reasons. However, cybercriminals can exploit this to conceal malware that mimics system files, resides in hidden folders, or alters existing system files.

Even if you stumble upon a malicious file, it might not be obvious what to do next. As a pioneer in antivirus, Norton can help detect and delete hidden malware from your Mac, making it easier to keep your system secure.