To configure the Windows Explorer in Windows Vista to view hidden and system files follow next steps:

1. Click on the the Control Panel / Folders icon
2. Click on the View tab at the top
3. Check or uncheck the options you want
4. Common ones to change are:
1. Check Show hidden files and folders
2. Uncheck Hide extensions for known file types
3. Uncheck Hide protected operating system files (You will get a warning when you do this last one).

Tags | Newbie Windows tips, Tips and Tricks, Vista, Windows