Show Hidden Finder Link Info
find ~ -type l -flags hidden -exec chflags nohidden {} \; (This toggles hidden flag on all symlinks in your home folder.) | Problem | Solution (Shortest Path) | |---------|---------------------------| | Hidden dot‑link ( .example ) | Use Cmd+Shift+. or rename with mv .link link | | Hidden flag set on link | chflags nohidden /path/link | | Link hidden because target is hidden | Show target first ( Cmd+Shift+. ) | | Sidebar link missing | Reset com.apple.finder.plist | | Network alias disappears | Create persistent symlink in /Volumes | | Third‑party tool preference | Install Funter or TinkerTool | Conclusion: Never Lose a Finder Link Again The keyword "show hidden finder link" might sound niche, but it’s a daily frustration for developers, IT admins, and creative pros who rely on symbolic links and aliases. macOS hides these links for valid reasons (system cleanliness, preventing accidental deletion), but when you need access, the blockage feels arbitrary.
To prevent future hiding, disable “Put hard disks to sleep when possible” in . Part 7: Third‑Party Apps to Show Hidden Finder Links If you dislike Terminal and the keyboard shortcut feels limited, use a dedicated tool. show hidden finder link
| App | Function | Best for | |------|----------|-----------| | | Free; toggles “Show hidden files” with a GUI | Permanent preference change | | Onyx | Extensive Finder visibility controls | Showing system links ( /bin , /etc ) | | Path Finder | Finder replacement with “Show Invisibles” button | Power users who work with symlinks daily | | Funter (by Nektony) | Shows hidden files in a separate window; can delete broken links | Discovering & managing hidden symlinks quickly | find ~ -type l -flags hidden -exec chflags