How to Show or Hide Hidden Files (Including .htaccess) in WP File Manager

Many users of the File Manager plugin encounter issues with files that start with a dot (.), such as .htaccess, .quarantine, or .tmb. These are often called "hidden files" and by default, the plugin does not display them for security reasons. This guide will explain the common problems and provide solutions for managing the visibility of these files.

Why Are Dot Files Hidden by Default?

The File Manager plugin hides files beginning with a dot (.) as a security precaution. Files like .htaccess are critical for server configuration, and accidental modification or deletion can break a website. Hiding them by default prevents users from accidentally causing issues.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem 1: You Need to SHOW Hidden Files

Some users report that dot files like .htaccess are not visible in the file list, making them impossible to manage through the interface.

Potential Solutions:

• Check for a View Option: Some versions of the plugin may have a navigation bar button to toggle the visibility of hidden files. Look for an icon or setting within the File Manager interface.
• Plugin Customization: The official method for showing hidden files may require customizing the plugin's code. However, be aware that this customization could be overwritten when the plugin updates.
• Reach Out for Guidance: Since this is a security-related feature, the File Manager team may have specific recommendations or methods for enabling this view. Users have been directed to contact their support for instructions on how to safely implement this.

Problem 2: You Need to HIDE Specific Files or Folders

Conversely, you may want to hide certain files or folders, such as the .quarantine and .tmb directories created by the plugin, to prevent users from seeing them.

Solution: Use the hide_files Shortcode Attribute

Evidence from user threads confirms that the hide_files shortcode attribute is the intended way to hide specific items. For example, to hide the .quarantine and .tmb folders, you would add them to a comma-separated list in the shortcode.

[file_manager hide_files=".quarantine,.tmb"]

Why it might not seem to work: The path is crucial. You may need to experiment with the exact path relative to the directory you are managing. For instance, if you are managing the wp-content directory, you would hide .quarantine. If you are managing a subdirectory, the path might be different.

Important Considerations

• Server Type: The plugin works on both Apache (which uses .htaccess) and nginx servers. Hiding or showing the .htaccess file will not affect the plugin's core functionality.
• Security: Be cautious when changing the visibility of critical system files. Making .htaccess visible and editable could introduce risk if users are not careful.
• Plugin Updates: Any direct edits to the plugin's source code to force hidden files to show will be lost when the plugin is updated. Using the supported hide_files shortcode attribute is the update-proof method for hiding files.

Managing hidden files is a common task with the File Manager plugin. While the default security settings hide them, the provided hide_files shortcode attribute offers a powerful way to customize visibility for your specific needs.