By default, Windows 7 hides important files and folders from view. This is to prevent users, especially beginners, from inadvertently making changes to or deleting an important operating system file.

In some cases, it might be necessary to display hidden folders and files. You can accomplish this in Windows 7 by following these steps:

1. Open a Windows Explorer window.
2. Click the Organize button.
3. Click Folder and Search Options.
4. From the Folder Options dialog box, click the View tab.
5. Click the Show hidden files, folders, and drives option.
6. Click OK.