Here's how to show hidden files on Mac with ForkLift: File managers make the process relatively easy. Viewing hidden files on a Mac using file managersĪnother way to reveal hidden files is by using third-party file managers. This way, no one else but you will be able to see the contents of the files. If you want to secure your data from snoopers properly, consider NordLocker's Mac file encryption.

Keep in mind that anyone can reveal the folders you just hid by using the same methods.

Drag the files you want to hide into the Terminal window.

To obscure something from view on your Mac, follow these steps: You can also use Terminal to hide your specific files from prying eyes.

Type in defaults write AppleShowAllFiles false and press Enter.

When you're done, tuck away the files again by following these steps: Once you run the script, the hidden files should show up in Finder.

Type in killall Finder and press Enter again.

Type in defaults write AppleShowAllFiles true and press Enter.

Alternatively, you can find it by clicking on Go in the menu bar, selecting Applications, scrolling down to Utilities, expanding the folder, and clicking on Terminal.

Open Terminal by typing “Terminal” in Mac's search bar.

(period) combination.Īnother way is by using the Mac Terminal to show hidden files:

If you want to obscure the files again, press the same Command + Shift +.

The hidden files will show up as translucent in the folder.

Open the folder where you want to search hidden files.

The first and easiest method is using Mac Finder to show hidden files: So, let's take a look at all the ways Mac can show hidden files. Apple offers quite a few ways to show the hidden files Mac has. However, if you need to access one of these files, don't worry. In other words, those hundreds of files are what helps your operating system run without a hitch.

They're secluded for a reason - deleting, modifying, or moving one could seriously impair your macOS performance. But those files aren't made invisible just to keep your folders looking clean. Your Mac has entire libraries and directories hidden away from view.

Mac finder window show file path