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How to Change the Icon Image for Any App in Windows

Key takeaways:

  • Customize your Windows desktop by changing app icons
  • Use built-in options or third-party software to change icons
  • Download high-quality icons from trusted sources
  • Follow step-by-step instructions to change icons for shortcuts, folders, and default system icons

Are you tired of looking at the same old app icons on your Windows desktop? Customizing your app icons is a great way to personalize your computer and make it truly your own. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of changing the icon image for any app in Windows, using both built-in options and third-party software.

Finding New Icons

Before you start changing your app icons, you’ll need to find some new icons to use. There are many websites that offer free, high-quality icons for download. Some popular options include:

  • IconArchive
  • FlatIcon
  • Icon8

When downloading icons, make sure to choose ones that are in the Windows icon file format (.ICO). If you find an icon you like in another format, such as PNG or JPG, you can easily convert it to ICO using an online converter tool.

Changing App Icons Using Shortcuts

The easiest way to change an app icon in Windows is by modifying its shortcut. Here’s how:

  1. Right-click on the app shortcut and select “Properties”
  2. In the Properties window, click on the “Shortcut” tab
  3. Click the “Change Icon” button
  4. Browse to the location of your new icon file and select it
  5. Click “OK” to apply the changes

Your app shortcut will now display the new icon image. If you have the app pinned to your taskbar, you may need to unpin and re-pin it for the changes to take effect.

Changing Folder Icons

You can also customize the icons for your folders in Windows. Here’s how:

  1. Right-click on the folder and select “Properties”
  2. In the Properties window, click on the “Customize” tab
  3. Click the “Change Icon” button
  4. Browse to the location of your new icon file and select it
  5. Click “OK” to apply the changes

Your folder will now display the new icon image.

Changing Default System Icons

Windows has a set of default system icons, such as the Recycle Bin and This PC. You can change these icons as well, but the process is slightly different:

  1. Right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select “Personalize”
  2. Click on “Themes” in the left sidebar
  3. Scroll down and click on “Desktop Icon Settings”
  4. Select the icon you want to change and click “Change Icon”
  5. Browse to the location of your new icon file and select it
  6. Click “OK” to apply the changes

Your selected system icon will now display the new image.

Using Third-Party Software

If you want even more control over your app icons, you can use third-party software like Stardock’s IconPackager. This program allows you to apply entire icon themes to your desktop, as well as create and edit your own icons.

To use IconPackager:

  1. Download and install the software from Stardock’s website
  2. Launch IconPackager and browse the available icon packs
  3. Select an icon pack and click “Apply” to change all your icons at once
  4. To change individual icons, right-click on an icon and select “Change Icon”
  5. Choose a new icon from the IconPackager library or browse for your own

IconPackager offers a wide variety of icon packs to choose from, and also allows you to create your own custom icons using its built-in editor.

Conclusion

Changing your app icons in Windows is a simple way to personalize your desktop and make it feel like your own. Whether you use the built-in options or third-party software, you can easily find and apply new icons to give your computer a fresh look.

Just remember to always download icons from trusted sources to avoid any potential security risks. And have fun experimenting with different icon styles and themes to find the perfect look for your desktop!

FAQ

Can I use any image file as an app icon?

While you can use various image formats like PNG or JPG, Windows requires icons to be in the .ICO file format. You can easily convert other image files to ICO using online tools or image editing software.

Will changing an app icon affect its functionality?

No, changing an app’s icon is purely cosmetic and will not impact its performance or functionality in any way.

Can I change the icons for Windows Store apps?

Unfortunately, you cannot change the icons for apps installed from the Windows Store using the methods outlined in this guide. These apps have their icons protected by the system.

How can I restore an app icon to its original image?

To restore an app icon, simply right-click on the shortcut, select “Properties,” click “Change Icon,” and choose the original icon from the list. If the original icon is not available, you can try uninstalling and reinstalling the app to restore its default icon.

Where can I find high-quality icons for my apps?

There are many websites that offer free and paid icon packs for download, such as IconArchive, FlatIcon, and Icon8. Be sure to download icons from reputable sources to avoid any potential security risks.

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