How to Hide or Show Hidden Files in macOS

You won’t be able to see all of the files when viewing them in the finder by default. Hidden files are usually system files that include data that the average user doesn’t need to see. But you might need to view it if you’re tinkering around. In this tutorial, you will learn how to turn the ability to show or hide hidden files in the macOS on or off.

Via Shortcut (Sierra Only)

• While viewing files in the Finder, simply press and hold CMD and SHIFT, while pressing . (period).

Use this keyboard combination repeatedly to toggle show/view all files on and off as desired.

Via Terminal Command

1. From the Finder, select “Go” > “Utilities“.
2. Open “Terminal“.
3. Do one of the following:
   • To show all files, type the following, then press “Enter“:
     defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles YES
   • To hide hidden files, type the following, then press “Enter“:
     defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles NO