Show hidden files and folders in Windows XP

Normally in windows XP, you can view the hidden files and folders by following the path. Tools>Folder Options>View, and then check the “Show hidden files and folders” radio button. Also, be aware that sometimes due to various spyware/trojan attacks, this radio box is unchecked automatically and you could not show the system hidden files and folders. If that’s the case, then you need to check for spyware and virus’ on your system. If this does not work, and you are logged in as the administrator, then you definitely have a virus or spyware installed on your computer. A sure fire way to test this is to check your system processes. In Windows XP, simply click CTRL>ALT>DEL, your task manager will show up in a small window. If you are using Windows Vista, You will get a task list, select “Start Task Manager” at the bottom of the list. Once your Task Manager is open, look at the second tab “processes” to see if there is anything running that shouldn’t be. Many spyware applications try to mimic legitimate Windows processes, so look for misspellings. For a list of standard processes and known spyware processes, go to www.symantec.com to read more.

If CTRL>ALT>DEL does not allow you to view your task manager, and you see a message something to the effect of “your administrator has disabled this feature”, then you definitely have spyware. www.1stopgeekshop.com has a great list of completely free virus and spyware removal tools

For more how-to tips, be sure to visit www.1stopgeekshop.com to get your geek on

Jason Gregg is a chief contributor of http://www.1StopGeekShop.com, a free computer and technology help directory.

Tags: Hidden Files-Folders