Files not Visible in Downloads Folder

Question

Since upgrading to Windows 11 I have not been able to see any files in my Downloads folder through an explorer window, both through the 'Downloads' shortcut and through C:\Users\username\Downloads. The Downloads 'shortcut' points to the correct folder, and the same issue is with all the user accounts on the computer

I can see all the files with the Terminal and they behave as normal there. I can also open sub-folders within the Downloads folder in explorer (using their path, or via the Terminal. They can be moved to another folder, and can be seen in Explorer there.

The inability to see files is exclusively a problem with the Downloads folder.

Has anyone else seen similar behaviour?

Answer 1

Hi

See below.

I am also able to see the files within the folder with some software (7zip screenshot below) but not all (i.e. Microsoft Office)

Thanks again

Matt

Answer 2

Hi Matt

That is very strange.

On the View menu in File Explorer, click the 3 dots and choose Options

On the resulting dialog, choose the View tab and scroll down to find the 'Hide Protected system files' setting, disable that and click apply, can you then see those files in Explorer?

Answer 3

It is strange. And surprisingly annoying!

Tried unhiding 'Protected system files'. No difference

Thanks

Matt

Answer 4

Hi Matt

If you change the downloads location in the browser settings to another folder, then download a file, can you then see that file?

Answer 5

Yes, downloaded into the Documents folder and all files are visible, including the new download