Do you want to find hidden files on your Windows workstation—maybe in your C:\Users\Public\Documents or a project folder in C:\Projects\USA? PowerShell offers several commands to locate hidden files.
In this tutorial, I’ll show you step-by-step how to list hidden files using PowerShell using different methods.
Hidden files are often system files or configuration files that Windows or applications don’t want you to modify accidentally.
Below are a few methods to list hidden files in PowerShell.
Method 1: List Hidden Files Using Get-ChildItem with the -Hidden Parameter
The Get-ChildItem cmdlet (also accessible via gci, ls, or dir) is the core PowerShell command for listing files and directories. By adding the -Hidden parameter, you can filter out and display only hidden files.
Example:
Suppose you want to list all hidden files in C:\Users\Public\Documents.
Get-ChildItem -Path "C:\Users\Public\Documents" -HiddenThis command scans the specified directory and returns only those files and folders marked as hidden. It’s a straightforward way to quickly audit hidden items in any folder.
Why does this work? The -Hidden parameter tells PowerShell to include only items with the hidden attribute, making it ideal for focused searches in directories with lots of files.
Check out Find Files Modified After a Specific Date Using PowerShell
Method 2: Reveal All Files (Including Hidden and System) with -Force
Sometimes, you want to see everything in a directory—hidden files, system files, and regular files. The -Force parameter with Get-ChildItem is your best friend for this scenario.
Example:
List all files, including hidden and system files, in C:\Projects\USA.
Get-ChildItem -Path "C:\Projects\USA" -ForceBy using -Force, PowerShell ignores the usual restrictions and displays all items, even those typically hidden from view. This method is especially useful for comprehensive audits and troubleshooting.
Why does this work? The -Force parameter overrides PowerShell’s default behavior, ensuring you never miss a file—critical when you’re dealing with sensitive or complex directories.
Read Get Files Older Than 1 Month with PowerShell
Method 3: Filter Hidden Files by Type or Name
Sometimes, you want to narrow your search to specific file types (like .log or .config) or names. You can combine -Hidden or -Force with the -Filter or -Include parameters.
Example:
Find all hidden .config files in C:\inetpub\wwwroot.
Get-ChildItem -Path "C:\inetpub\wwwroot" -Hidden -Filter *.configThis command is perfect for developers or admins working with web servers or application directories, helping you spot hidden configuration files quickly.
Why does this work? Combining filters with the -Hidden parameter lets you zero in on exactly what you need, reducing noise and saving time during audits or troubleshooting.
Check out PowerShell Script to Delete Files Older Than 30 Days
Method 4: Recursively List Hidden Files in Subfolders
In real-world scenarios, hidden files are often buried deep within nested folders. The -Recurse parameter helps you search through all subdirectories.
Example:
Recursively list all hidden files in D:\Data\USA_Archives.
Get-ChildItem -Path "D:\Data\USA_Archives" -Hidden -RecurseThis approach is invaluable for forensic investigations, compliance checks, or when you inherit a large, unfamiliar directory structure.
Why does this work? The -Recurse flag tells PowerShell to traverse every subdirectory, ensuring no hidden file escapes your audit.
Method 5: Display Hidden Files with Detailed Information
For deeper analysis, you may want to see file attributes, sizes, or timestamps. By piping the output to Select-Object, you can customize the displayed details.
Example:
Show hidden files with their full path, size, and last modified date.
Get-ChildItem -Path "C:\Finance\USA_Reports" -Hidden |
Select-Object FullName, Length, LastWriteTimeThis method is ideal for generating reports or documentation for compliance or asset management.
Why does this work? Select-Object lets you tailor the output, making it easier to spot anomalies or gather information for further action.
Check out Check Who Modified a File Last in Windows Using PowerShell
Method 6: List Hidden Files Owned by a Specific User
In enterprise environments, you may want to find hidden files owned by a particular user (for example, jane.smith). You can use Where-Object in combination with Get-ChildItem.
Example:
Find hidden files in C:\Users owned by jane.smith.
Get-ChildItem -Path "C:\Users" -Hidden -Recurse |
Where-Object { $_.GetAccessControl().Owner -like "*jane.smith*" }This is especially useful for security audits or when offboarding employees.
Why does this work? By filtering based on file ownership, you can quickly identify files that may need to be archived, deleted, or further investigated.
Check out Find Files Modified in the Last 24 Hours in PowerShell
Quick Reference Table
| Method | Command Example | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| List only hidden files | Get-ChildItem -Hidden | Quick audits for hidden files |
| Show all (hidden/system) | Get-ChildItem -Force | Comprehensive directory listings |
| Filter by file type | Get-ChildItem -Hidden -Filter *.config | Find specific hidden file types |
| Recursive search | Get-ChildItem -Hidden -Recurse | Deep audits in nested folders |
| Detailed info | `Get-ChildItem -Hidden | Select-Object FullName, Length, LastWriteTime` |
| By owner | `Get-ChildItem -Hidden | Where-Object { $_.GetAccessControl().Owner -like “*” }` |
Conclusion
In this tutorial, I explained how to list hidden files in PowerShell using various commands such as Get-ChildItem -Hidden and Get-ChildItem -Force, etc.
If you have any questions or want to share your own tips, drop them in the comments below—I’m always happy to help fellow PowerShell users!
You may also like the following tutorials:
- Find Files Modified Between Dates Using PowerShell
- Show Progress When Copying Files with PowerShell Copy-Item
- How to List Directories and Files in PowerShell
Bijay Kumar is an esteemed author and the mind behind PowerShellFAQs.com, where he shares his extensive knowledge and expertise in PowerShell, with a particular focus on SharePoint projects. Recognized for his contributions to the tech community, Bijay has been honored with the prestigious Microsoft MVP award. With over 15 years of experience in the software industry, he has a rich professional background, having worked with industry giants such as HP and TCS. His insights and guidance have made him a respected figure in the world of software development and administration. Read more.
