How to View the System32 Directory in Windows XP

View the System32 directory through Window's "My Computer" window.

The System32 directory within Windows XP contains drivers and informational files that control the various files and applications on your Windows-based computer. The folder also contains utility programs for managing the hard drive and other devices connected to your computer. If the System32 directory is deleted, the Windows operating system cannot load. The System32 directory is accessible for viewing, but you must be careful that you don't delete, move or modify a file within the folder by accident.

Instructions

Accessing the System32 Directory -- "My Computer"

1. Click "Start," "My Computer." Double click on the "C:\" drive icon.

2. Double-click the "Windows" folder. If prompted with a warning message about entering the Windows folder, click "Allow." The Windows Explorer window will open.

3. Click "Tools," "Folder Options." Click on the "View" tab.

4. Click on the circle next to the wording "Show hidden files and folders" under the heading "Hidden files and folders" to deselect this option so you can view the "System32" folder if it is hidden.

   Click "Apply," "OK."

5. Scroll to the "system32" folder. The folders within the "Windows" folder are in alphabetical order.

6. Double click the "system32" folder to open and view the directory's contents.

7. Click "Tools," "Folder Options." Click on the "View" tab.

8. Click on the circle next to the wording "Do not show hidden files and folders" under the heading "Hidden files and folders" to return system folders to a hidden state.

   Click "Apply," "OK."

Accessing the System32 Directory Using a Command Prompt

1. Click "Start," "Run."

2. Enter "cmd" in the "Open:" box. Click "OK."

3. Enter "cd..". Press "Enter" or "Return."

4. Enter "cd.." again to get to the "C:\" prompt. Press "Enter" or "Return."

5. Enter "cd windows\system32" at the "C:\" prompt. Press "Enter" or "Return."

6. Enter "dir" to view the contents of the "System32" directory.

7. Enter "exit" to return to the Windows operating system.

Tips & Warnings

• If using a command prompt to view the contents of the "System32" directory, you must be at a "C:\" prompt to access the "System32" directory, or you will receive an error.

References

• PC Hell.com: How to Delete Undeletable Files in Windows
• GID Forums.com: C:\Windows\System32 Folder Missing

Resources

• Support.Microsoft.com: System32 Folder Opens When Logging on to Windows XP