Thanks to the popularity of computers, numerous operating systems are available for users to choose from. For instance, PC users can choose to go for a version of Windows, Linux, or ChromeOS. However, most users prefer using Windows since it offers all the features anyone could ask for. When it comes to Macs, Apple’s computers only support macOS. Even though there are numerous ways following which users can install other operating systems on their Mac, macOS is the most-optimized OS for Macs. Each operating system differs from the other in numerous aspects. According to PCMag, there are multiple differences between macOS, Windows, and Linux.
Similarly, all major operating systems also feature numerous similarities in basic functions and features. A prime example of this is that all major operating systems, including macOS, Windows, and Linux, offer users numerous ways following which they can hide files and folders on their device. This feature facilitates users to enhance the privacy of their files and keep it safe from other users who share their Mac or PC. This article will cover step-by-step procedures following which users can hide files and folders on their Mac or Windows PC. Let us get started:
macOS:
macOS offers numerous features to its users, following which they can enhance their data’s safety. One of the methods includes the file-hiding functionality. If you are a macOS user and are wondering how to hide folders on Mac, there are multiple ways following which you can mask any file or folder present on your device. Here are some of the most popular methods:
By using Keyboard Shortcut – macOS allows users to perform numerous tasks easily by using a combination of keys, including hiding a file or folder. To hide any file or folder using the default keyboard shortcut, all you need to do is search for the file or folder you wish to hide using the Finder utility, select them, and press the “Shift,” “Command,” and “. “keys together. Doing so will mask the desired file and folder. If you wish to access the file, you would need to press the same combination of keys again to reveal them.
By using FileVault – macOS offers numerous useful native utilities, each of which has its features and functionalities. The built-in FileVault utility allows users to hide any file or folder easily. Moreover, users can one-up the security quotient by setting a password. Only those who know the password can access the hidden files and folders. It is a very useful utility that facilitates users to prevent others from accessing and opening confidential data. To use FileVault to hide important files and folders, follow the given steps:
Step 1 – Navigate to the “System Preferences” utility and open the “Security & Privacy” tab.
Step 2 – Open the FileVault tab and enable it by tapping on the padlock icon.
Step 3 – Enter your login credentials.
Step 4 – Select your preferred recovery method and proceed ahead and confirm.
Step 5 – Click on “Continue” to complete the process.
Windows:
Almost every version of the Windows operating system offers numerous features using which users can easily hide important files and folders from other users. If you own a Windows PC and wish to hide any files or folders, here are two of the most effective ways following which you can easily get the job done:
By using Command Prompt – The Command Prompt utility of Windows has been a part of the OS for quite a long time. Like macOS’ native Terminal utility, it facilitates users to perform numerous activities by inputting commands. Windows users can conveniently use the powerful native tool to mask files and folders conveniently. To hide any file or folder using the Command Prompt tool, follow these steps:
Step 1 – Find and open Command Prompt from the Start Menu.
Step 2 – Replace the default path and file name with the file or folder’s path and name you wish to hide and place +s or +h beside them as per your preferences. (+s refers to a System file attribute and +h refers to a hidden file attribute).
Step 3 – Press the Enter button.
By using File Explorer – The native File explorer utility of Windows OS offers users the option to easily hide any file and folder and access them conveniently in times of need. To hide files using the File Explorer utility, follow the given steps:
Step 1 – Select the folder or file you wish to hide on your PC.
Step 2 – Right-click on the selected items, click on Properties, and then open the “General” tab.
Step 3 – Open the Attributes section and check the box beside which “Hidden” is written.
Hiding files and folders on your Mac or Windows PC is a great way to ensure they remain safe and secure from mishaps. If you wish to hide any file or folder on your Mac or Windows PC, refer to the above steps to do the job without hassle.
