Undone: Hidden files & folders - Hide protected OS system files

W7Px64 fully updated except W10 nag optional updates.

Was just manually backing up data to multiple external hdds.

Then started deleting duplicate programs & files. Using Agent Ransack to search files. Tried to go files locations through Windows Explorer, but I couldn't find them.

So I went to Control Panel - Folder Options - View.
Don't show hidden files, folders & drives was selected. Hide protected operating system files was also selected.

I never have it set that way. What happened?

 

It is the Windows default.

 

I know that. I always change them.

 

I'm with you now.

 

Any idea what set it back to Default?

 

No. I haven't experienced that change.