How to Find Missing Folders After a Microsoft or macOS Update
Question details
The user is trying to locate folders that disappeared following a recent system or software update.
- Product
- Windows, macOS, Microsoft 365, Outlook
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Searching for files and directories that are no longer visible after upgrading an operating system or Microsoft Office suite.
- Observed behavior
- Folders appear to be completely missing from their usual computer directories or within the Microsoft Outlook email client.
Determine whether the recent update was for your operating system (Windows or macOS) or for your Microsoft 365 applications, as the recovery steps will differ based on what was updated.
Reveal Hidden Folders in Windows File Explorer
System updates on Windows can sometimes reset folder visibility settings. Use this method to show hidden items.
Major Windows updates may restore default File Explorer configurations, which automatically hide system folders and certain files to prevent accidental deletion. Re-enabling the visibility toggle will reveal them.
Click the folder icon on your taskbar or press the Windows key + E to open a new File Explorer window.
Click on the 'View' tab at the top of the window, select 'Options', and then click 'Change folder and search options'.
In the Folder Options dialog box, navigate to the 'View' tab. Under the Advanced settings list, check the radio button for 'Show hidden files, folders, and drives'.
Click 'Apply' and then 'OK'. Navigate to the directory where your folders were previously saved to see if they have reappeared.
Use the 'Go to Folder' Command on macOS
If folders disappeared after a macOS upgrade, you can navigate directly to their specific path using Finder.
Restore Missing Folders in Microsoft Outlook
Updating to Microsoft 365's 'New Outlook' interface can sometimes cause custom email folders to temporarily vanish from the sidebar.
Avoid Update Disruptions with WPS Office
Tired of layout changes, disappearing folders, and interface overhauls after Microsoft 365 updates? WPS Office is a free, lightweight, and highly stable alternative. Enjoy a familiar interface, seamless document management, and an easy migration process without the hassle of unexpected disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do folders suddenly disappear after an OS update?
During major operating system updates, certain directory paths might be restructured, or your folder view settings (such as hiding system files) can be reset to their default states. This makes your folders temporarily invisible rather than permanently deleted.
Will reverting to Classic Outlook delete my recently received emails?
No. Switching back to Classic Outlook using the toggle only changes the user interface. Your emails, custom folders, contacts, and calendar events are safely synced with your mail server and will not be lost.
What should I do if the macOS 'Go to Folder' trick doesn't work?
If you still cannot locate your folders after using Finder's search and Go to Folder commands, check the 'Relocated Items' shortcut on your desktop, try restoring the folders from a recent Time Machine backup, or contact Apple Support for assistance.
