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Welcome to this article where we will guide you on how to change icons on Windows 10. Icons play an important role in our computer experience, as they serve as visual cues that help us navigate through the different applications and files on our device. While Windows 10 comes with a set of default icons, you may want to change them to better suit your personality and style. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to do just that.
Steps to Change Icons on Windows 10
Step 1: Choose the Item You Want to Change
The first step in changing icons on your Windows 10 device is to select the item you want to change the icon for. This item could be a file, folder, shortcut, or even a system icon. Once you have selected the item, right-click on it and select ‘Properties.’
Step 2: Select the ‘Shortcut’ Tab
After clicking on ‘Properties,’ select the ‘Shortcut’ tab, where you will find different options to customize your icon.
Step 3: Select ‘Change Icon.’
Clicking on ‘Change Icon’ will open a dialog box displaying a range of icons to choose from.
Step 4: Browse for More Icons
If you don’t see an icon you like on the list, you can click on ‘Browse’ to search for other icons. You can search for icons on your device or download them from the internet.
Step 5: Choose an Icon and Click ‘OK’
Once you have chosen an icon you like, click ‘OK’ to apply it to your selected item.
Step 6: Customize System Icons
If you want to customize system icons such as ‘This PC’ or ‘Network,’ right-click on your desktop and select ‘Personalize.’ Click on ‘Themes’ and then select ‘Desktop icon settings.’ From here, you can customize the system icons to your liking.
Step 7: Create Custom Icons
If you can’t find an icon that suits your needs, you can create your own custom icon using an image editor, such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP.
Step 8: Save Your Custom Icon as an ICO File
After creating your custom icon, save it as an ICO file. This is the format that Windows uses for icons.
Step 9: Convert PNG or JPEG to ICO
If you have an image file in PNG or JPEG format that you want to use as an icon, you can convert it to an ICO file using an online converter tool.
Step 10: Use a Third-Party Icon Pack
There are many third-party icon packs available online that you can download and install to customize your Windows 10 icons. These icon packs often come with a large collection of icons to choose from.
Step 11: Use an Icon Editing Software
If you want to create more complex icons or customize existing ones, you can use an icon editing software, such as IconLover or Axialis IconWorkshop.
Step 12: Reset to Default
If you want to return your icons to their default state, right-click on your desktop and select ‘Personalize.’ Click on ‘Themes’ and then select ‘Desktop icon settings.’ Click on ‘Restore Default’ to reset your icons.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Tip 1: Use High-Resolution Icons
To ensure a sharp and clear display of your icons, use high-resolution icons. High-resolution icons are those that have a minimum resolution of 256×256 pixels.
Tip 2: Use Icons From Trusted Sources
If you download icons from the internet, make sure they are from a trusted source to avoid downloading malware or viruses onto your device.
Tip 3: Group Similar Icons
To facilitate navigation and improve visual organization, group similar icons into separate folders.
Tip 4: Keep Your Icons Organized
Avoid cluttering your desktop with too many icons. Instead, keep them organized in a few folders for easy access.
Tip 5: Use Icon Packs for Consistency
If you want a consistent look and feel for your icons, consider using icon packs that come with a wide range of matching icons.
Tip 6: Use Icon Libraries
If you are designing software or an application, you can use icon libraries to ensure uniformity and consistency in your icons.
Tip 7: Use a Color Scheme
Consider using a color scheme when selecting icons for your device. This will help you to identify related items easily.
Tip 8: Use Preview Thumbnails
When selecting icons, use preview thumbnails to get a better idea of how the icons will look in different sizes.
Tip 9: Use Contrast
To ensure the icons stand out and are easily recognizable, use contrasting colors and shapes.
Tip 10: Experiment and Have Fun!
Customizing your icons is a fun and creative way to personalize your Windows 10 experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs, colors, and shapes to find the perfect look that suits your style.
In conclusion, changing icons on Windows 10 is a simple and easy process that allows you to personalize your device to better suit your style and personality. With the above step-by-step guide and tips, you can create a unique and customized desktop that reflects your individuality.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Changing Icons in Windows 10
Advantages
1. Aesthetics – Changing icons can make your desktop look more visually appealing and attractive to the eye.
2. Organizational – By changing icons, you can customize your desktop and better organize your files and programs.
3. Easy identification – Differentiating between programs and files will be easier with distinct icons, which can save time and improve efficiency.
4. Personalization – Customizing icons can give your desktop a personal touch and make it uniquely yours.
5. Fun – Playing around with different icons can be a fun and enjoyable activity, especially for those who enjoy customization.
Disadvantages
1. Time-consuming – Changing icons can be a time-consuming process, especially if you want to change many at once.
2. Technical knowledge – To change icons, you need to have some technical knowledge, and not everyone may feel comfortable doing it.
3. Compatibility issues – Icons may not always be compatible with certain programs, and they may not appear correctly, which can lead to confusion.
4. System errors – Changing icons can sometimes cause system errors, which may affect the performance of your computer.
5. Limited options – You may not be able to find the perfect icons to suit your needs, as there are limited options available.
FAQ
1. How do I change the icons in Windows 10?
You can change icons in Windows 10 by right-clicking on the folder or file you want to change, selecting the “Properties” option, clicking on the “Shortcut” tab, and selecting the “Change Icon” button. From there, you can choose a new icon and save your changes.
2. Can I customize the icons on my desktop?
Yes, you can customize your desktop icons by right-clicking on the desktop, selecting “Personalize,” and then clicking on “Themes.” From here, you can choose from a variety of icon sets or create your own.
3. What types of files can I change the icons for?
You can change the icons for most files, including folders, applications, and shortcuts.
4. Can I use my own images for icons?
Yes, you can use your own images for icons by selecting the “Browse” option when choosing a new icon.
5. How do I restore the default icons?
You can restore the default icons by right-clicking on the folder or file you want to change, selecting the “Properties” option, clicking on the “Shortcut” tab, and selecting the “Restore Defaults” button.
6. Do I need to restart my computer after changing icons?
No, you do not need to restart your computer after changing icons.
7. Can I change the icons for multiple files at once?
Yes, you can change the icons for multiple files at once by selecting all the files you want to change, right-clicking and selecting “Properties,” clicking on the “Shortcut” tab, and then selecting the “Change Icon” button.
8. Will changing icons affect my computer’s performance?
No, changing icons should not affect your computer’s performance.
9. Can I change the icon size?
Yes, you can change the icon size by right-clicking on the desktop, selecting “View,” and then selecting the size you want.
10. Can I change the icons for system files?
It is possible to change the icons for system files, but doing so can cause problems and is not recommended.
11. How do I change the icon for a specific file type?
You can change the default icon for a specific file type by going to “Settings,” selecting “Apps,” clicking on “Default Apps,” and then selecting “Choose default apps by file type.” From there, you can select the file type you want to change and choose a new icon.
12. What are some websites where I can download new icons?
Some popular websites for downloading new icons include DeviantArt, IconArchive, and IconFinder.
13. Can I make my own icons?
Yes, you can make your own icons using graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator.
How to Change Icons in Windows 10
Changing icons in Windows 10 can be a fun way to personalize your desktop and make it look unique. Whether you want to change the icon for a specific program or change the appearance of all your desktop icons, Windows 10 makes it easy. In this article, we will guide you through the steps you need to take to change icons in Windows 10.
The first step to changing icons in Windows 10 is to select the icon you want to change. You can do this by right-clicking on the icon you want to change and selecting “Properties”. Once you have selected Properties, click on the “Change Icon” button. This will bring up a list of available icons for that particular program or file.
If you want to change the icon for all of your desktop icons, you can do so by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting “Personalize”. From there, click on “Themes” and then “Desktop icon settings”. This will bring up a window where you can select a new icon for each of your desktop icons.
Once you have selected the new icon you want to use, click on “OK” and your icon will be changed. If you do not see the new icon right away, you may need to refresh your desktop for the changes to take effect.
Conclusion
Changing icons in Windows 10 is a simple way to add some personality to your desktop and make it your own. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily change the icons for individual programs or all of your desktop icons. So why not give it a try and see how you can make your desktop stand out from the crowd!
Closing
Thank you for reading this article on how to change icons in Windows 10. We hope that you found it informative and useful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Good luck with personalizing your desktop!