How to Show Protected OS Files in Regedit

This guide explains how to configure Windows to display or hide protected operating system files by modifying the Windows Registry. While this setting is typically accessed via File Explorer’s Folder Options, using the Registry Editor allows you to automate the change, apply it via scripts, or resolve issues when the graphical interface is unavailable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type regedit and press Enter or click OK.
  3. Click Yes if prompted by User Account Control (UAC).

Step 2: Navigate to the Explorer Advanced Key

In the Registry Editor address bar, paste the following path and press Enter:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced

Alternatively, use the left navigation pane to expand the folders to reach the Advanced key.

Step 3: Modify the ShowSuperHidden Value

  1. In the right-hand pane, locate the DWORD value named ShowSuperHidden.
    • Note: If ShowSuperHidden does not exist, right-click an empty space in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it ShowSuperHidden.
  2. Double-click ShowSuperHidden to open its properties.
  3. In the Value data field, enter your desired configuration:
    • Enter 1 to show protected operating system files.
    • Enter 0 to hide protected operating system files.
  4. Set the Base to Hexadecimal (or Decimal; both work for 0 and 1).
  5. Click OK.

Step 4: Apply the Changes

For the changes to take effect immediately, restart Windows Explorer: 1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager. 2. Locate Windows Explorer in the Processes tab. 3. Right-click Windows Explorer and select Restart.