I want a link to a folder on my desktop that shows hidden files in that folder. I also want a link to the same folder that doesn't show hidden files, though I don't need help with the latter.

Thanks

if you're talking about filesystem level symlinks and such, then that's not possible.

if you're talking about Window Manager stuff, you need to be more specific abuot what window manager you are using etc.. we're not psychic.

If you're using KDE then this is simple.

Step 1: create Konqueror view profile
In konqueror, create a view profile by setting up a window to how you want it to appear when you click on the link we are going to make. You will need to set View > Show Hidden Files, and navigate to the directory that you want to open on.

Step 2: save view profile
Click Setting, then Save View Profile "xxx". give it a name like custom1.

Step 3: create the desktop icon
On the desktop, right-click and go to Create New > File > Link to Application.
In the General tab, give the link a name and pick an icon.
In the Application tab, type "konqueror --profile xxx " into the Command, replacing xxx with the name of your new profiile.

If you want to know more about running konqueror from the command line, type "konqueror --help-all" into a console.

Hope this helps