How to view and change file attributes

Overview

Windows attributes label files as read-only, hidden, system, or archive. attrib displays and changes those flags.

An attribute is metadata, not encryption or access control. Hidden files can still be listed, and read-only may not prevent every program from changing data.

• Letters include R read-only, H hidden, S system, and A archive.
• A plus sign sets an attribute; a minus sign clears it.
• Use dir /a to include hidden items in a listing.

Commands to try

Type each command at the prompt, then press Enter. Replace sample names and paths with ones that exist on your computer.

Commands are generally not case-sensitive, but preserving the spelling shown here makes scripts easier to read.

attrib notes.txt
attrib +r notes.txt
attrib -r notes.txt
attrib +h private-note.txt
attrib -h private-note.txt
attrib /s /d Practice\*

Useful options and details

Options change how a command behaves. Add spaces exactly as shown, and use the command's built-in help when an option is unfamiliar.

A path containing spaces must be enclosed in double quotes, such as "C:\My Files".

• /s processes matching files in subfolders.
• /d includes directories when used with /s.
• Wildcards select multiple names and deserve a preview.

Tips and common mistakes

Check the current folder and read the command output before assuming an operation succeeded.

Practice with disposable files first. Commands that delete, overwrite, or stop a process may not offer an Undo button.

• Do not remove system or hidden flags from Windows-managed files.
• A hidden attribute is not a privacy feature.
• Some cloud-sync and application behavior may change attributes automatically.

Safe practice

Create a temporary practice folder under your user profile so the examples cannot affect Windows system files.

After each command, inspect the result with dir or another read-only command before continuing.

• Create a disposable file and inspect its attributes.
• Set and clear read-only, checking after each command.
• Temporarily hide it and find it with dir /a.