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Search for hidden files
- Thread starter karohan
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Thanks for the replies! That definitely helps me find system files, but it still doesn't find any hidden files. I can seem to find a search attribute corresponding to that, though there are a lot and I may have missed it. I tried using the filter to look for "hidden" but that didn't come up with anything.
No, but you can set Finder to always show hidden files.
To show hidden files in Finder, enter the following two commands into a Terminal window (press enter after each line):
defaults write com.apple.Finder AppleShowAllFiles TRUE
killall Finder
To hide hidden files, repeat the process, replacing TRUE with FALSE.killall Finder
I don't recommend it, though. It increases the chance of you accidentally deleting a needed system file and it clutters your desktop and Finder with files you don't need to see all the time.
No, not as any global-type pref, unfortunately.
But, we can save searches and then open them later (e.g., from a stack on the dock). Saved searches are useful not only for some specific complex search we might do frequently but also for more general stuff. I.e., we can edit the criteria of any saved search later on... and then either save or not save those edits, accordingly. [it's easier to do than it is to explain... just try it.]
Yeah, I figured out how to show hidden files in Finder and that was useful sometimes, but you're right, it's neater to keep that option off during standard use. I wish there was quick key shortcut to toggle that view on and off.
I might consider using saved searches, that's interesting make-shift sort of solution.
I might consider using saved searches, that's interesting make-shift sort of solution.
This is a great hint. I had no idea you could customise the "Find" criteria (I tend to only use Spotlight). And searching for hidden files is very useful. Is there a place useful hints like this get catalogued?