Changing a shortcut icon in Windows 10 is a simple process that allows you to personalize your desktop or start menu. First, right-click on the shortcut you want to change. Then, navigate to the ‘Properties’ menu and click on the ‘Change Icon’ button. Choose your new icon from the list or browse to find one on your computer, then click ‘OK’ to apply the changes.
How to Change a Shortcut Icon in Windows 10
In this section, we will go through a step-by-step guide on how to change a shortcut icon in Windows 10.
Step 1: Right-click on the Shortcut
First, right-click on the shortcut icon that you want to change.
When you right-click on the shortcut, a context menu will appear. This menu will have various options, but we are interested in the ‘Properties’ option.
Step 2: Select ‘Properties’
Next, click on the ‘Properties’ option from the context menu.
When you click on ‘Properties,’ a new window will open up. This window contains various settings related to the shortcut.
Step 3: Click on ‘Change Icon’
In the ‘Properties’ window, click on the ‘Change Icon’ button.
This button is usually located under the ‘Shortcut’ tab. Clicking it will open another window showing the available icons.
Step 4: Choose Your New Icon
In the ‘Change Icon’ window, select the icon you want to use from the list or browse your computer to find a different one.
If the available icons don’t suit your needs, you can click ‘Browse’ to locate other icons stored on your computer.
Step 5: Click ‘OK’ and Apply
Finally, click ‘OK’ to confirm your new icon, and then click ‘Apply’ or ‘OK’ in the ‘Properties’ window.
This will apply the new icon to your shortcut. You should now see the updated icon on your desktop or start menu.
After you complete these steps, the new icon will be displayed in place of the old one. Your shortcut will still function the same way, but with a fresh new look.
Tips for Changing a Shortcut Icon in Windows 10
- Choose High-Quality Icons: Always use high-resolution icons to ensure they look good on your desktop.
- Backup Original Icons: If you’re changing system icons, make a backup of the original ones in case you want to revert back.
- Use .ico Files: Windows prefers .ico files for icons, so if you’re downloading them, make sure they are in this format.
- Check Icon Size: Ensure the icon size is appropriate for the shortcut; typically, 32×32 pixels is standard.
- Keep Icons Organized: Store your custom icons in a designated folder to keep your system organized and make it easier to find them later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any image as an icon?
No, you cannot use just any image. The image needs to be in the .ico file format to be used as an icon in Windows 10.
What if the ‘Change Icon’ button is greyed out?
This usually happens with system shortcuts. You may need administrative privileges to change these icons.
How do I revert to the original icon?
Simply follow the steps above and select the default icon from the list in the ‘Change Icon’ window.
Are there any free resources for icons?
Yes, websites like IconArchive, Flaticon, and Icons8 offer a plethora of free icons you can use.
Can changing icons slow down my computer?
No, changing icons will not affect your computer’s performance. It’s a purely visual change.
Summary
- Right-click on the Shortcut.
- Select ‘Properties.’
- Click on ‘Change Icon.’
- Choose Your New Icon.
- Click ‘OK’ and Apply.
Conclusion
Changing a shortcut icon in Windows 10 is a quick and easy way to customize your desktop and make it uniquely yours. This simple process allows you to replace the generic icons with ones that better represent the programs, files, or folders they are linked to. Whether you’re tired of the default look or just want more visual coherence with your theme, changing icons can be a fun and satisfying tweak.
For those who love to personalize their computer, consider also exploring other customization options like changing your wallpaper, adjusting your taskbar settings, or even installing custom themes. There’s a whole world of tweaks and changes you can make to ensure your Windows 10 experience is just right for you.
Feel free to share your newly customized desktop with friends or online communities—it’s always exciting to see how others personalize their space. If this guide was helpful, let us know, or check out our other tutorials for more tech tips and tricks. Happy customizing!