show hidden files in linux

Jane Haynes

2 min read

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05-09-2024

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When using Linux, you may occasionally need to access files that are hidden from standard directory listings. Hidden files usually begin with a dot (.), such as .bashrc or .gitignore. In this guide, we’ll explore several methods for revealing these elusive files in Linux, making your navigation experience smoother.

Why Are Files Hidden?

Hidden files in Linux serve various purposes. They often contain configuration settings for applications or system preferences. By hiding them, the system helps users maintain a cleaner workspace, ensuring that only essential files are visible. However, when you need to modify these files or troubleshoot issues, you'll need to make them visible.

Methods to Show Hidden Files

1. Using the Command Line

The terminal is a powerful tool in Linux, and you can easily list hidden files using simple commands.

a. List All Files Including Hidden

To show hidden files, open your terminal and type the following command:

ls -a

Here’s a breakdown of the command:

• ls: This is the command to list directory contents.
• -a: This option tells the command to include all files, including those that are hidden.

Example:

ls -a

Output:

.  ..  .bashrc  .gitignore  file1.txt  file2.txt

In this output, . refers to the current directory, and .. refers to the parent directory. The other entries are the hidden files.

2. Using GUI File Managers

If you prefer a graphical interface, you can show hidden files through your file manager. Here’s how you can do it in a few popular file managers:

a. GNOME Files (Nautilus)

1. Open Nautilus (Files).
2. Press Ctrl + H to toggle hidden files visibility on and off.
3. Alternatively, you can select View from the top menu and then click on Show Hidden Files.

b. Dolphin (KDE)

1. Open Dolphin (the file manager for KDE).
2. Press Alt + . (Alt and the period key) to toggle hidden files.
3. You can also go to View in the menu and select Show Hidden Files.

c. Thunar

1. Open Thunar.
2. Press Ctrl + H to show hidden files.
3. You can also go to the View menu and select Show Hidden Files.

3. Using the find Command

For more advanced users, the find command can be used to locate hidden files in a specific directory. Here’s how:

find /path/to/directory -name ".*"

This command will search for all files in the specified directory that start with a dot.

Conclusion

Revealing hidden files in Linux is a straightforward process, whether you prefer using the terminal or a graphical file manager. Utilizing the methods outlined above, you can effortlessly manage your files and configurations.

Additional Resources

• Understanding the Linux File System
• Basic Linux Commands for Beginners
• File Management in Linux: Tips and Tricks

Now that you know how to show hidden files, you can navigate your Linux environment with confidence. Happy file hunting!