View protected Windows system files

By viewing protected system files in Windows, you can make changes to the operating system. For example, you can access the hosts file under C: \ Windows \ System32 \ drivers \ etc as soon as the protected Windows system files are no longer hidden.

View protected system files in Windows 7

In Windows 7, the protected system files can be viewed in a few simple steps. However, please note that these files are not inherently hidden for no reason! If you make incorrect changes in the Windows system or delete necessary files, problems may occur during system execution.

1. Open Windows Explorer by opening the "Computer" from the Windows Start menu.
2. Now click on "Organize" in the top left (see screenshot).
3. Choose "Folder and Search Options" from the menu. A new window is going to be opened.
4. Go to the "View" tab (see screenshot).
5. Under "Advanced Settings" remove the check mark at "Hide protected system files (recommended)". Now the Windows system files are also displayed.

View protected system files in Windows 8

In Windows 8, you proceed very similarly as described above. Only the way to get to the folder options menu is different:

1. Open the Charms menu in Windows 8 and go to "Search".
2. Select "Settings" as the search option and search for "Folder Options".
3. The search hit takes you to the Folder Options menu; there you make the same setting as described under point 5 for Win7.