Show hidden files on Mac

Make Finder display hidden (dot) files and folders.

macOSFinderdefaultsHidden filesFilesMedium risk

Run the command below in Terminal, then Finder restarts and hidden files (names starting with a dot, plus system folders like /Library in your home folder) become visible.

01Command

Command

$ defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles -bool true && killall Finder

02What it does

Finder hides files whose names begin with a period. The defaults command changes Finder's AppleShowAllFiles preference to true, and killall Finder restarts Finder so the change takes effect immediately. Your files are not modified — only Finder's view setting changes.

03Risk

RiskMedium risk

CompatibilitymacOS 10.11 El Capitan – 15 Sequoia

!Warning: You will now see system files everywhere. Do not move or delete files you do not recognize.

04Undo

Undo

$ defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles -bool false && killall Finder

05Sources

macOS defaults command reference
SS64 · technical · 2025-11-20
Evidence: AppleShowAllFiles toggles Finder display of hidden files; Finder must be restarted.
macOS User Guide — view hidden files
Apple · apple-doc · 2025-11-20
Evidence: Finder hides files and folders whose names begin with a dot.

Last verified: 2025-11-20 · Category: Files & Folders

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