All my files are hidden

[dax1956]

Hi

I recently had to reinstall Windows XP so prior to doing so I backed up all my relevant documents etc. I did this using Karens replicator to copy all the contents of the My Documents folder to an external hard drive.

Once I had XP up and running again I copied the My Documents contents back to my PC (on the C drive). I then moved the My Documents folder to a separate partition.

My issue is that now all my files in the My Documents folder are hidden and the same applies with the copy on the external drive.

So I have a couple of questions:

1. Does anyone have any idea why these files would suddenly become hidden
2. What is the best way to unhide them I've just started doing this but have found I have to open each folder then select all the files, select properties and uncheck the hidden attribute.

Thanks in advance

Dax

[tfspry]

Have you tried .....
Tools>Folder Options>View>Show hidden files and folders

[jockmullin]

Hi Dax

Open a command prompt.
Go to the topmost folder containing hidden files.
Type the following command and hit enter:
attrib *.* -H /S /D

That should unhide all files in the current folder and all subfolders and also unhides hidden folders.

Jock

[dax1956]

Sorry for the late reply....

Thanks Tim for your suggestion but already tried that without success.

Jock tried using the command function but not real good at it, as I have the relevant folder on a separate partition not the C drive can you advise how I change to the other drive (i.e. D). All the folders are listed under that drive.

Thanks again in advance
Cheers

[tfspry]

Hi Dax - Just curious, are the files hidden or locked? It may be a permissions issue.

Tim

[dax1956]

Oops sorry Jock I shouldn't ahve been so lazy in the first place, managed to find some instructions for the command so have manged to run your suggestion and it worked, so thanks very much for all your help

Cheers

Dax

[dax1956]

Hi Tim
No they were just hidden

[jockmullin]

Hi Dax

Sorry I didn't see your question earlier - off on leave for a couple days.
Anyway, glad to hear it worked out.

Jock

[DrWho]

As a tech, I absolutely HATE hidden files! It's really difficult to set up a new PC when so many files and folders are Hidden.

So I just run a little script to UN-Hide all files. Running the script again reverses the process.

This is a great time saver for any tech or just a techie user.

I think you can find the .vbs script if you Google "Show Hidden Files".

If not, drop me a PM and maybe I can steer you in the right direction.

Doc