Hidden folders (dotfiles) not showing in File Explorer despite "Detect all file types" being enabled

[2624518703]

Steps to reproduce

1. Create a new, empty vault on a local drive (e.g., D:\TestVault).
2. In the Windows File Explorer, create a new folder inside the vault’s root directory named .test.
3. Place a file inside the .test folder to ensure it is not empty.
4. Open this vault in Obsidian.
5. Go to Settings > Files & Links.
6. Enable the toggle for “Detect all file types”.
7. Restart Obsidian and/or force a reload (Ctrl + R).
8. Observe the file explorer pane on the left.

Did you follow the troubleshooting guide? [Y/N]

Y

Expected result

The .test folder should be visible in the file explorer pane, just like any other folder.

Actual result

The .test folder is completely invisible. Only non-hidden files and folders are displayed in the file explorer.

Environment

SYSTEM INFO:
Obsidian version: v1.9.14
Installer version: v1.9.14
Operating system: Windows 11 Home China 10.0.22631
Login status: not logged in
Language: en
Insider build toggle: off
Live preview: on
Base theme: adapt to system
Community theme: none
Snippets enabled: 0
Restricted mode: on

RECOMMENDATIONS:
none

Additional information

This is not a simple user configuration issue. I have undertaken extensive troubleshooting steps, and the problem persists in all scenarios. This suggests a rare, environment-specific bug.

Here is everything I have tried:

1. Confirmed Core Setting: The “Detect all file types” setting is confirmed to be enabled.
2. Ruled out Plugin/Theme Conflicts: The issue persists when Obsidian is started in Restricted Mode (no third-party plugins/no css snippets/default theme).
3. Ruled out Cloud Sync Issues: The issue was reproduced in a brand new, completely local vault, proving it is not related to any cloud sync service.
4. Performed a Full Global Config Reset: I have completely reset Obsidian’s global configuration by renaming the %APPDATA%\obsidian folder. The issue persisted on a fresh configuration.
5. Checked Windows File Attributes: I have used the Windows Command Prompt attrib command to inspect the .test folder. The folder was not marked as a “System” (S) attribute, and manually clearing attributes had no effect.
6. Ruled out Security Software Interference: I have temporarily disabled all antivirus and security software (including Windows Defender). This had no effect.

I have screenshots for every step of this process if they are needed.

[ariehen]

Enable use of hidden files and folders starting with a dot /dotfiles/.dotfolders within Obsidian

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