Custom icons for windows

Applies ToWindows 11 Windows 10

Support for Windows 10 will end in October 2025

After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11.

Learn more

Your desktop is the first thing you encounter when you sign in to Windows, and having it organized to your liking can significantly enhance your productivity and overall experience. This article describes how to customize the default desktop icons, add new shortcuts, adjust their size to suit your preferences, and show or hide all icons as needed.

Customize the default desktop icons

By default, Windows includes the Recycle Bin icon on the desktop. Essential icons that you can customize include:

  • This PC: Provides access to the computer’s drives and connected devices

  • Recycle Bin: Where deleted files are temporarily stored

  • Network: Allows you to view and connect to network resources

  • User’s Files: A shortcut to your personal folders

Additional shortcuts can be added to suit individual preferences and enhance productivity.

To customize the default desktop icons:

  1. In the Settings app  on your Windows device, ​​​​​​​select Personalization > Themes or use the following shortcut:

    Themes

  2. Select Desktop icon settings

  3. Select the icons you would like to have on your desktop, then select OK

Note: The option Allow themes to change desktop icons allows or prevents themes from changing the icons used for common desktop shortcuts such as This PC, User’s Files, Network, and Recycle Bin. By default, themes are allowed to change these icons. However, if you have customized these icons to your preference, you might not want them to be altered whenever you change your theme.

Screenshot of the desktop icon settings in Windows.

​​​​​​​

Add shortcuts to your desktop

By placing frequently used applications, files, and folders directly on your desktop, you can access them quickly without navigating through multiple menus or folders. This can save time and reduce the effort needed to perform routine tasks.

To add shortcuts to your desktop, you can use one of these options:

  1. Right-click on an empty area of the desktop

  2. Select New > Shortcut

  3. Follow the prompts to create a shortcut to a specific file, folder, or web page

Screenshot of right-click data-lazy-src=

​​​​​​​

  1. Select Start  and select All to display a list of all installed applications

  2. Scroll through the list to find the app for which you want to create a shortcut

  3. Drag and drop the app you want to create a shortcut for to the desktop

  1. Navigate to the file or folder you want to add

  2. Right-click on the file or folder and select Show more options > Send to > Desktop (create shortcut)

  1. Open your web browser and navigate to the web page you want to add

  2. Click and drag the padlock icon (next to the URL) to your desktop

Resize the desktop icons

Resizing desktop icons can be useful for improving accessibility and organization. For example, if you have a high-resolution monitor, the default icon size might appear too small, making it difficult to identify and click on the icons. By increasing the icon size, you can make them more visible and easier to interact with. Conversely, if you have many icons on your desktop and want to fit more on the screen without scrolling, reducing the icon size can help you manage your workspace more efficiently.

  1. Right-click on an empty area of the desktop

  2. Select View and then choose between Large icons, Medium icons, or Small icons to adjust their size.

Tip: You can also use the scroll wheel on your mouse to resize desktop icons. On the desktop, press and hold Ctrl while you scroll the wheel to make icons larger or smaller.

Screenshot of the contextual menu on the desktop that appears when you right-click.

​​​​​​​Show or hide all desktop icons

Hiding desktop icons can be useful in various scenarios. For instance, if you’re giving a presentation or sharing your screen during a meeting, hiding desktop icons can help create a cleaner and more professional appearance. It can also be beneficial if you want to focus on a specific task without the distraction of numerous icons cluttering your desktop.

  1. Right-click on an empty area of the desktop

  2. Select View, and then uncheck Show desktop icons. This will temporarily hide all icons, and you can easily show them again by rechecking the same option.

Screenshot of the contextual menu on the desktop that appears when you right-click.

Tip: If you hide your desktop icons and need to access the desktop, you can do so through File Explorer. Simply open File Explorer , and select Desktop in the navigation pane.

Need more help?

Want more options?

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

Create personalized icons in Windows 11 effortlessly.



Published




5 min read

Creating custom icons in Windows 11 can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to personalize your desktop experience according to your style or to better reflect your organization system. Icons are not just visual representations; they can enhance productivity and make it easier to locate files and applications quickly. This detailed guide will walk you through the entire process, from selecting or designing your icons to replacing existing ones on your system.

Understanding Icons

Before we dive deep into the creation process, let’s take a moment to understand what icons are. In computer terminology, icons are small graphical representations of programs, files, folders, and system functions. They simplify user interaction with software and the operating system. Custom icons can add personality to your workspace while also improving function by providing visual cues that are more recognizable to individual users.

Choosing or Designing Your Icons

The first step in creating custom icons is deciding whether you want to design your own or choose from existing icons.

  1. Using Existing Icons:

    • There are numerous websites, such as Flaticon, IconArchive, and Icons8, where users can download free icons. Ensure that the icons are available for commercial use if you intend to use them in a business setting. Download the icons you like to your computer, preferably in .ICO format, which is the standard format for icons in Windows.
  2. Creating Your Own Icons:

    • If you’re feeling creative, you can design your own icons using software such as Adobe Illustrator, GIMP, or any vector graphics application.
    • Ensure your icon adheres to the 256×256 pixels size to maintain clarity when displayed.
    • Save your design as a .PNG file, which can later be converted to .ICO format using various online converters or dedicated software.

Converting Images to ICO Format

If you’ve designed your own icons or downloaded icons in formats such as .PNG or .JPEG, you will need to convert these images into the .ICO format.

  1. Using Online Converters:

    • Websites such as ConvertICO or ICO Convert allow you to upload your images and receive downloadable .ICO files.
    • Most converters have options to customize the output, for example, selecting the size and transparency level.
  2. Using Software for Conversion:

    • If you prefer desktop tools, software like GIMP or IcoFX is helpful. These programs allow you to import your image, edit it as necessary, and then export it in the .ICO format.

Applying Custom Icons in Windows 11

Now that you have your custom icons ready, the next step is to apply them. The process varies slightly depending on whether you are changing desktop icons, folder icons, or application icons.

Changing Desktop Icons

  1. Right-click on the Desktop:

    • Choose «Personalize» from the context menu.
    • Navigate to «Themes» and select «Desktop icon settings.»
  2. Selecting an Icon:

    • In the Desktop Icon Settings window, select the icon you wish to change (e.g., This PC, Recycle Bin).
    • Click on «Change Icon.»
  3. Finding Your Custom Icon:

    • In the Change Icon window, click «Browse» and navigate to the location where your custom .ICO file is saved.
    • Select your icon file and click «OK,» then click «Apply.»
  4. Viewing Your Changes:

    • Return to your desktop to see the new icon in action.

Changing Folder Icons

  1. Locate the Folder:

    • Right-click on the folder whose icon you want to change and select «Properties.»
  2. Customizing the Icon:

    • Go to the “Customize” tab and click on “Change Icon.”
  3. Selecting Your Icon:

    • Click “Browse” to find your custom .ICO file, click “OK,” then “Apply” to see your folder icon change.

Changing Application Icons

Changing application shortcuts requires a similar process:

  1. Right-click the application shortcut on your desktop or in the Start menu.
  2. Select “Properties” and then go to the “Shortcut” tab.
  3. Click on “Change Icon” and browse for your custom .ICO file.
  4. Confirm your selection by clicking “OK,” and then “Apply” to finish.

Tips for Creating Effective Icons

Creating effective icons goes beyond just aesthetics. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Simplicity and Clarity: Icons should be simple and instantly recognizable. Avoid overly detailed designs that can confuse users.

  2. Maintain Consistency: Use a consistent style – whether it’s minimalistic or detailed – across all your icons for a cohesive look.

  3. Use Colors Wisely: Colors should evoke the right emotion, and bright colors can be eye-catching but may lead to overstimulation. Balance is key.

  4. Test Visibility: Check how your icon looks at different resolutions and ensure it is clear and distinct even when scaled down.

Backing Up Your Icons

Before making changes, it’s wise to back up your current icons and any custom icons you’ve created. Here’s how:

  1. Create a Folder on your desktop or an external drive where you can store both the original and custom icon files.

  2. Export Existing Icons: If you want to back up the original Windows icons, tools like IconBook or Axialis IconWorkshop can help you extract them.

Backing up ensures that you can restore your original icons should you change your mind or experience any issues.

Troubleshooting Icon Issues

Sometimes issues can occur when applying or displaying custom icons. Here are some common problems and solutions:

  • Icons Don’t Change: If the icon doesn’t update, try refreshing your desktop by right-clicking on it and selecting “Refresh.” If that doesn’t work, restart your machine.

  • Icon Appearances Do Not Match: Sometimes, Windows caches icon images. You can clear the icon cache by using Disk Cleanup or through File Explorer by navigating to C:Users\AppDataLocalMicrosoftWindowsExplorer and deleting the file named iconcache.

  • Incorrect Display: If your icon appears distorted, double-check that it is in the right .ICO format and that your original image was high enough in resolution.

Additional Customization Ideas

Custom icons can serve various functions beyond merely personalizing your desktop. Here are some ideas to maximize their utility:

  1. Thematic Collections: Design a set of icons based on a specific theme or color palette for a more unified appearance.

  2. Categorization: Use different icons to signify various categories of files (for example, one set for work-related documents, one for personal photos). This approach will assist you in locating files quickly and intuitively.

  3. Holiday or Seasonal Icons: Change icons based on seasonal events (like Halloween or Christmas) for a fun touch.

  4. Branding: If you are a professional, custom icons that reflect your brand colors and logo can enhance your digital presence.

Conclusion

Creating custom icons in Windows 11 is a straightforward yet powerful way to personalize your workspace and boost productivity. Whether you choose to download existing icons or create your own, the process is simple and can significantly enhance your user experience.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can change desktop, folder, and application icons seamlessly, while also solving common problems that may arise. Remember to take your time when designing or selecting icons to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

Not only will you end up with a visually appealing setup, but you’ll also create a working environment that feels uniquely yours. Therefore, don’t hesitate to jump in, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the satisfaction of a customized digital workspace!

How to Make Custom Icons in Windows 10

Making custom icons in Windows 10 can give your desktop a unique and personalized touch. It involves creating or downloading the icon images you want to use, then changing the default icons to your custom ones. Once you follow these steps, your desktop will look tailor-made just for you.

In this section, we will break down the steps needed to create and apply custom icons on your Windows 10 desktop. By the end of these steps, you’ll know how to transform any Windows icon into a custom icon.

Step 1: Download or Create Icon Images

First, download or create the icon images you want to use.

You can find many free icon images online or use a graphic design tool to create your own. Ensure the images are in .ico format for compatibility with Windows.

Step 2: Convert Images to .ico Format

Second, convert your images to .ico format if they aren’t already.

There are various free online tools, like ICO Convert, that can help you convert standard image files (like .png or .jpg) into the .ico format. Just upload your image and follow the conversion instructions.

Step 3: Save Your Icons in a Folder

Third, save all your .ico files in a dedicated folder.

This step helps keep your icons organized and easily accessible. Create a new folder somewhere on your computer and move all your .ico files into it.

Step 4: Right-Click the Desktop Icon

Fourth, right-click the desktop icon you want to change and select «Properties.»

This action will open the icon’s properties window, where you can customize its appearance.

Step 5: Change Icon

Fifth, click on the «Change Icon» button within the Properties window.

A new window will pop up, allowing you to choose a new icon for the selected desktop item.

Step 6: Browse for Your Icon

Sixth, click «Browse» and navigate to the folder where you saved your .ico files.

Select the icon you want to use and confirm your choice.

Step 7: Apply and Confirm

Seventh, click «Apply» and then «OK» to confirm the change.

Your desktop icon should now display your custom image. Repeat these steps for any other icons you want to customize.

After you complete the action, your Windows 10 desktop will be populated with personalized icons, giving your system a unique and customized appearance.

Tips for Making Custom Icons in Windows 10

  • Use high-resolution images for better-looking icons.
  • Keep a backup of original icons in case you want to revert back.
  • Name your .ico files descriptively to easily identify them.
  • Regularly update your icon library with new designs.
  • Experiment with different styles to find what suits you best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any image as an icon?

Yes, but the image needs to be converted to .ico format for Windows 10 to recognize it as an icon.

Are there size limitations for .ico files?

Yes, .ico files should ideally be 256×256 pixels for best quality on high-resolution displays.

Where can I find free icons online?

Websites like IconArchive, Flaticon, and Icons8 offer a wide range of free icons available for download.

Can I revert back to the original icons?

Yes, simply go back to the «Change Icon» settings and select «Restore Defaults.»

Do custom icons affect system performance?

No, custom icons do not significantly impact system performance.

Summary

  1. Download or create icon images.
  2. Convert images to .ico format.
  3. Save your icons in a folder.
  4. Right-click the desktop icon and select «Properties.»
  5. Click the «Change Icon» button.
  6. Browse for your icon.
  7. Apply and confirm.

Conclusion

Customizing your icons in Windows 10 is an easy yet effective way to make your desktop uniquely yours. Whether you prefer minimalist designs or vibrant graphics, changing your icons can reflect your personal style and enhance your user experience.

By following the steps outlined above, you can easily transform any icon on your desktop. If you’re interested in further customization, consider exploring other Windows 10 personalization options like themes and wallpapers.

Remember, the goal is to make your workspace as comfortable and inspiring as possible. Dive into the world of custom icons and enjoy a desktop that truly represents you. For more tech tips and tricks, stay tuned and keep exploring!

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.

Windows 10 allows users to customize their desktop experience in many ways, including changing the icons for files, folders, and applications. By following a few simple steps, you can create your own custom icons and apply them to make your desktop truly unique.

Creating custom icons for Windows 10 can completely personalize your computer. The process involves designing or selecting an icon, converting it to the right file format, and then applying it to the desired folder or application. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making your own custom icons on Windows 10.

Step 1: Create or Download an Image

Pick or design an image that you want to use as an icon.

You can use image editing software like Photoshop or GIMP to create an icon from scratch. Alternatively, you can download free icons from websites like Flaticon or Icons8. Ensure your image is of high quality for the best result.

Step 2: Convert the Image to ICO Format

Convert your image to an ICO file using an online converter.

Websites like ICO Convert or ConvertICO make it easy to turn your image into an ICO file. Just upload your image, select the desired size (usually 256×256 pixels), and download the converted file.

Step 3: Save the ICO File

Save the downloaded ICO file to a convenient location on your computer.

It’s best to create a dedicated folder for your icons. This way, you can keep all your custom icons organized and easily accessible for future use.

Step 4: Right-click on the Folder or Shortcut

Right-click on the folder, file, or shortcut you want to change the icon for, and select «Properties.»

From the context menu, select «Properties.» This opens a window where you can customize various aspects of the folder or file.

Step 5: Select «Change Icon»

In the Properties window, go to the «Customize» tab (for folders) or the «Shortcut» tab (for shortcuts), and click «Change Icon.»

A new window will pop up, showing the current icon and a list of available icons. This is where you will add your custom icon.

Step 6: Browse for Your ICO File

Click the «Browse» button and navigate to the location of your saved ICO file.

Find your custom ICO file in the directory where you saved it. Select the file and click «Open» to load it into the icon selection window.

Step 7: Apply the New Icon

Click «OK» in the icon selection window, then click «Apply» in the Properties window.

You’ll immediately see your new icon applied to the folder, file, or shortcut. If it doesn’t show up right away, try refreshing the desktop.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll have a custom icon applied to your selected folder, file, or shortcut. This small change can make your desktop feel more personalized and organized.

Tips for Making Custom Icons on Windows 10

  • Choose high-quality images for the best results.
  • Use image editing software to fine-tune your icon design.
  • Keep backup copies of your original icons in case you want to revert changes.
  • Make sure your icons are easily distinguishable from each other.
  • Consider using a consistent theme for all your custom icons to maintain a cohesive look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any image as an icon?

Yes, but it must be converted to an ICO file format first.

How do I revert to the original icon?

Go back to the «Properties» window and click «Change Icon,» then select the default icon.

Do custom icons slow down my computer?

Generally, no. Custom icons shouldn’t affect your computer’s performance.

Can I share my custom icons with others?

Yes, you can share the ICO files just like any other file.

Do I need special software to make custom icons?

No special software is required; online converters and basic image editing tools will suffice.

Summary of Steps

  1. Pick or design an image.
  2. Convert the image to ICO format.
  3. Save the ICO file.
  4. Right-click the folder or shortcut.
  5. Select «Change Icon.»
  6. Browse for the ICO file.
  7. Apply the new icon.

Conclusion

Changing your icons on Windows 10 is a great way to personalize your desktop and make it uniquely yours. With just a few simple steps, you can create your own custom icons and apply them to any folder, file, or shortcut. Whether you’re looking to organize your files better or just want a fresh look, custom icons are a fun and easy way to achieve that. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore different designs—after all, your computer should reflect your personality and style. So, go ahead and start making your custom icons today!

Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.

He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.

You can read his full bio here.

Download Article

Edit the size and image of your Windows desktop icons

Download Article

  • Changing System Desktop Icons
  • |

  • Changing Shortcut and Folder Icons
  • |

  • Showing or Hiding Desktop Icons
  • |

  • Resizing Desktop Icons
  • |

  • Adding Shortcuts to the Desktop
  • |

  • Creating Icon Images
  • |

  • Downloading Custom Icons
  • |

  • Video
  • |

  • Q&A
  • |

  • Tips

Want to customize desktop icons on your Windows computer? You can change any of the desktop icons, including the recycle bin, network folder, system folders, and personal folders. Choose from your own images or download icons online. Here’s how to change or create desktop icons for Windows 10 and 11 computers.

Quick Steps

  1. Open Settings > Personalization > Themes.
  2. Click Desktop icon settings.
  3. Click an icon you want to change.
  4. Click Change Icon…
  5. Select a new icon and click OK.
  6. Click Apply, then OK.
  1. Step 1 Open Start icon.

    Click the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of the screen, or press the Windows key.[1]

    • If you want to use a custom icon from the internet, see the downloading icons section first.
  2. Step 2 Click Settings icon.

    It’s in the lower-left side of the Start window.

    Advertisement

  3. Step 3 Click Personalization.

    This is the monitor-shaped icon on the Windows Settings page.

    • You can also access this page by right-clicking a blank space on the desktop and then clicking Personalization in the drop-down menu.
  4. Step 4 Click Themes.

    It’s a tab on the left side of the Personalization window.

  5. Step 5 Click Desktop icon settings.

    This link is in the upper-right side of the Themes page. Clicking it opens the Desktop Icon Settings window.

    • If you haven’t edited your theme at all, this link will be in the middle of the page beneath the «Related Settings» heading.
    • You can also click Get more themes in the Store below the «Apply a theme» heading to browse desktop themes. Some themes will change your desktop icons’ appearances.
  6. Step 6 Click an icon you want to change.

    This will select the icon.

    • For example, you might click This PC, Recycle Bin, Network, or User’s Files.
    • You can also check the box next to a desktop icon’s name at the top of the window to make it appear on your desktop, or uncheck the box to remove it from the desktop.
    • Check the «Allow themes to change desktop icons» box on this window to enable theme-related icon changes.
  7. Step 7 Click Change Icon.

    It’s near the bottom of the window.

  8. Step 8 Select an icon.

    You can select two different types of icons:

    • System icon: Click an icon in the window.
    • Custom icon: Click Browse, then click the folder that your custom icons are in on the left side of the window. Select the icon you want to use, then click Open.
  9. Step 9 Click OK.

    This will assign your selected icon to the desktop program.

  10. Step 10 Click Apply, then click OK.

    Doing so confirms your decision and changes the desktop program’s icon to your selected icon.

  11. Advertisement

  1. Step 1 Open the File Explorer icon.

    You can find this icon at the lower-left side of your taskbar, or you can press the Start menu and search for File Explorer.

    • You cannot change the icons of specific files (e.g., Notepad files or .exe files) using this method. You’ll only be able to customize desktop shortcuts and folders with this method.
  2. Step 2 Click Desktop.

    It’s a folder in the left-hand column of options in the File Explorer window.

    • This may already be pinned under Quick access.
  3. Step 3 Click a shortcut or folder icon.

    Shortcut icons have a white box with an arrow in their lower-left corners.

  4. Step 4 Click the Home tab.

    It’s in the upper-left corner of the File Explorer window. Doing so will open a toolbar at the top of the window.

  5. Step 5 Click Properties.

    This is a white box with a red checkmark in the «Open» section of the toolbar.

    • If you click the down-arrow instead of the Properties icon, you’ll need to click Properties again.
    • You can also right-click on the icon on your desktop and then click Properties to get to this menu.
    • If the icon is pinned to your taskbar, you can right-click it and click Properties to get this menu.
  6. Step 6 Click Customize or Shortcut.

    This will be located at the top of the Properties window.

    • Shortcut: Click the Shortcut tab at the top of the Properties window.
    • Folder: Click the Customize tab at the top of the Properties window.
  7. Step 7 Click Change Icon.

    This will be near the bottom of the window.

  8. Step 8 Select an icon.

    You can select two different types of icons:

    • System icon — Click an icon in the window.
    • Custom icon — Click Browse, then click the folder that your custom icons are in on the left side of the window. Select the icon you want to use, then click Open.
  9. Step 9 Click OK.

    This will assign your selected icon.

  10. Step 10 Click Apply, then click OK.

    Doing so confirms your decision and changes the original icon to your selected icon.

  11. Advertisement

  1. Step 1 Right-click your desktop.

    For easier navigation, be sure to minimize all open windows.[2]

    • A pop-up menu will open.
    • Use this method if you want to toggle icon visibility on your desktop.
  2. Step 2 Hover your cursor over "View".

    This will be at the very top of the menu.

  3. Step 3 Click Show desktop icons.

    When this option in unchecked, all desktop icons will be hidden.[3]

    • To show desktop icons again, click Show desktop icons.
  4. Advertisement

  1. Step 1 Right-click your desktop.

    For easier navigation, be sure to minimize all open windows.

    • A pop-up menu will open.
  2. Step 2 Hover your cursor over "View".

    This will be at the very top of the menu.

  3. Step 3 Select your icon size.

    You can click Large icons, Medium icons, or Small icons. After clicking, your desktop icons will be changed immediately.[4]

    • You can also hold CTRL and scroll up or down on your mouse to increase or decrease the icon size.
  4. Advertisement

  1. Step 1 Open the File Explorer icon.

    You can find this icon at the lower-left side of your taskbar, or you can press the Start menu and search for File Explorer.

  2. Step 2 Click the Desktop folder.

    It’s on the left side of the File Explorer window.

    • This may already be pinned under Quick access.
  3. Step 3 Click the Home tab.

    You’ll find this tab in the upper-left side of the File Explorer window.

  4. Step 4 Click New item.

    It’s in the «New» section of the tool bar at the top of the window.

  5. Step 5 Click Shortcut.

    This option is in the New item drop-down menu. A window with options for your new shortcut will appear.[5]

  6. Step 6 Click Browse.

    It’s in the middle of the page. Doing so opens a pop-up window.[6]

  7. Step 7 Scroll down and click the program's or file's folder.

    For example, if the program or file is in the Documents folder, you’d click My Documents.

    • You may have to click through several different folders to find the program or file for which you want to create a shortcut.
  8. Step 8 Click OK.

    Doing so sets the desktop shortcut’s target as your selected item.

    • If you rename the desktop icon or move it to a new folder, your shortcut will no longer work.
  9. Step 9 Click Next, then enter a name.

    The default name for the shortcut is the same name as the program itself.

  10. Step 10 Click Finish.

    It’s in the bottom-right corner of the window. This will create your shortcut in the folder you selected.

  11. Advertisement

  1. Step 1 Open the Paint application on your computer.

    If you don’t have the Paint application, you can download it from the Microsoft Store.

    • Use this method if you want to create custom icons.
  2. Step 2 Click File.

    It’s a blue button in the upper-left corner of the Paint window.

  3. Step 3 Click Open.

    This option is in the File menu. Doing so opens a window where you can open a file location.

    • If you’d rather create your own icon by drawing in Paint, skip this step and instead create your drawing.
  4. Step 4 Select a picture.

    You may have to click a location on the left side of the Open window (e.g., Pictures) to find the picture you want to open.

    • Skip this step if you’re drawing your own icon.
  5. Step 5 Click Open.

    This will open your image in the Paint window.

    • Skip this step if you’re drawing your own icon.
  6. Step 6 Click File again.

    It’s in the top-left corner of Paint.

  7. Step 7 Select Save as.

    This option is near the top of the File menu.

  8. Step 8 Click BMP picture.

    It’s an option to the right of the Save as button. Doing so opens a Save As window where you can name your file.

  9. Step 9 Type in your file's name followed by .ico.

    This will ensure that your file is saved as an icon file.

    • For example, you might name your file «shortcut.ico».
  10. Step 10 Navigate to a save location.

    Do so in the left-hand pane of the Save As window.

    • The Pictures folder is a safe place to save your shortcut file.
  11. Step 11 Click Save.

    It’s at the bottom of the window. Doing so will save your icon in your selected folder.

  12. Step 12 Change a program's...

    Change a program’s icon using your created icon. You’ll use the Browse method and select your custom icon from the folder where you saved it.

  13. Advertisement

  1. Step 1 Open a web browser.

    Microsoft Edge is the official Windows 10 browser, though you can use Google Chrome, Firefox, Opera, or another browser.

  2. Step 2 Search for Windows icons.

    Type «download windows desktop icons» into your browser’s address bar or a search engine and press Enter.

    • You can narrow your search by entering the program’s name (e.g., «Windows my computer icon») or by using the icon file type (e.g., «ICO»).
    • Some popular icon websites include:
      • https://www.flaticon.com/
      • https://feathericons.com/
      • https://fontawesome.com/
      • https://boxicons.com/
  3. Step 3 Download the icons you want.

    You can do this by opening a site that has your icons and clicking the Download button. Doing so will save the icons to your computer.

    • If you download multiple icons at once, you may have to extract the icons to a regular folder before continuing.
  4. Step 4 Open the File...

    Open the File Explorer

    Windows Start Explorer

    . You can find this icon at the lower-left side of your taskbar, or you can press the Start menu and search for File Explorer.

  5. Step 5 Click Desktop.

    This folder is on the left side of File Explorer.

  6. Step 6 Click your icons folder.

    Doing so selects it.

    • If you just downloaded one icon, select the icon instead.
  7. Step 7 Click Home.

    This tab is in the upper-left corner of the File Explorer window.

  8. Step 8 Click Move to.

    It’s in the «Organize» section of the toolbar at the top of the File Explorer window.

  9. Step 9 Click Pictures.

    This folder is near the middle of the pop-up window.

    • You can select any folder on your computer if you don’t want to place your icons in Pictures.
  10. Step 10 Click Move.

    This will send your icons to a folder where you won’t move or delete them.

  11. Step 11 Change a program's...

    Change a program’s icon using your downloaded icon. You’ll use the Browse method and then select an icon from within the Pictures folder to do this.

  12. Advertisement

Add New Question

  • Question

    I lost the icon for my email. How do I get it back on my desktop?

    Click on your Windows key and type your email program. Then, just drag it onto your desktop.

  • Question

    How do I change the background of icon names on my desktop in XP?

    Highlight then right-click, and a list of things should pop up. Click on «change.»

  • Question

    How do I put icons on my desktop from a program?

    If on windows, search using the windows key for the program and then drag and drop it onto your desktop.

See more answers

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Advertisement

Video

  • You can find themes for Windows 10 in the Store, which is an app that comes preinstalled on Windows 10.

Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

Advertisement

  • If you move or delete an icon file, the program you were using the file with will stop displaying the icon.

Advertisement

About This Article

Article SummaryX

1. Click the Start menu and select Settings.
2. Click Personalization.
3. Click Themes.
4. Click Desktop icon settings.
5. Select an icon to change.
6. Click Change Icon.
7. Select a new icon and click OK.
8. Click OK.

Did this summary help you?

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,391,428 times.

Is this article up to date?

Понравилась статья? Поделить с друзьями:
0 0 голоса
Рейтинг статьи
Подписаться
Уведомить о
guest

0 комментариев
Старые
Новые Популярные
Межтекстовые Отзывы
Посмотреть все комментарии
  • Windows server remote desktop connection
  • Windows vista live usb
  • Просмотр сетевых подключений windows 10
  • Расширить том не активно windows server 2012
  • Видеоредактор для windows 10 топ