How to Show Hidden Files on a Mac With Terminal

You may not even realize how much hidden data is on your Mac, from basic things like preferences files for user data and applications, to basic system data that your Mac needs to function properly. This happened because Apple hides files and folders to prevent you from accidentally changing or deleting important data that your Mac needs.

But accessing these files can be difficult. But fortunately, Apple includes ways to access these hidden items in OS X and newer macOS. In addition, below we leave you a guide that will help you with this:

How to Show Hidden Files on a Mac With Terminal

Understanding Hidden Files and Folders

Purpose: macOS strategically conceals specific system files and folders, denoted by a leading period (".") in their filenames. This cloaking serves a dual purpose:

Safeguarding System Integrity: Shielding critical system files from accidental modification or deletion helps preserve system stability and prevent unintended consequences.

Maintaining User Interface Clarity: By occluding non-essential elements, macOS fosters a clutter-free user interface, simplifying file management tasks for everyday users.

Examples: Common hidden items include:

Library Folder: This crucial directory houses application support files, system configurations, and user preferences.

Configuration Files: These files govern application behavior and system settings.

Temporary Files: Used to store transitory data during application execution, these files are typically deleted automatically.

Cautious Disclosure: A Prerequisite

Before embarking on this process, it's imperative to emphasize the significance of exercising prudence. Modifying certain system files can lead to unforeseen system instability or malfunctions. Proceed with caution and only alter files or folders whose purposes you fully comprehend.

Revealing Hidden Files and Folders with Terminal

Accessing Terminal: Navigate to the Applications directory, open the Utilities folder, and launch the Terminal application.

Executing Commands:

With Terminal open, meticulously type the following command and press Return:

Bash

defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles TRUE

Usa el código con precaución.

content_copy

This command instructs the Finder application to display all files, encompassing those designated as hidden.

Restarting Finder:

Type the subsequent command and press Return:

Bash

killall Finder

Usa el código con precaución.

content_copy

This command restarts the Finder application, enabling the changes to take effect. You might observe a temporary disappearance and reappearance of your desktop during this process.

Witnessing the Previously Unseen

Launch the Finder application.

Hidden items will now be materialized alongside standard files and folders. You can identify them by their slightly translucent appearance or the leading period in their names.

Maintaining System Integrity: A Gentle Reminder

Discernment is Key: While exploring these hidden elements, refrain from modifying or deleting files or folders unless you possess a comprehensive understanding of their functionality. Altering core system files can potentially compromise system stability.

Ephemeral Visibility: The revealed hidden files and folders will remain visible until you conceal them again using the methods outlined below.

Concealing Hidden Files and Folders (Optional):

Relaunch Terminal: Open the Terminal application once more.

Hiding Files:

Type the following command and press Return:

Bash

defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles FALSE

Usa el código con precaución.

content_copy

This command instructs the Finder to revert to its default behavior of hiding specific files and folders.

Restarting Finder:

Type the subsequent command and press Return:

Bash

killall Finder

Usa el código con precaución.

content_copy

This command restarts the Finder application, implementing the changes.

If you follow these steps, you can apply the Terminal to operate effectively to reveal archives and hidden folders within your macOS archival system. Collect, the practices responsible for managing archives are fundamental to maintaining a healthy and functional system.