Want to do some system file digging? Need to access some system logs? Here’s the simplest way to show hidden files and folders on Mac OS X:

Step 1: Go to Applications>Utilities and launch Terminal.app

Step 2: Type in the following code (making sure you type it in EXACTLY how it appears below) -

defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles TRUE
killall Finder

Step 3: Your Finder should restart and you should now have access to hidden files and folders.

To disable hidden files and folders on Mac OS X, follow these steps:

Step 1: Go to Applications>Utilities and launch Terminal.app

Step 2: Type in the following code (making sure you type it in EXACTLY how it appears below) -

defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFiles FALSE
killall Finder

Step 3: Your Finder should restart and you should not see any hidden files or folders.