Table of Contents
1. Use Built-in Folder Properties
2. Apply a Custom .ICO File
3. Modify Desktop.ini for Advanced Control
4. Use Third-Party Software
Home System Tutorial Windows Series How to customize folder icons in Windows

How to customize folder icons in Windows

Oct 07, 2025 am 06:38 AM
windows folder icon

To personalize Windows, change folder icons using built-in properties, custom .ico files, desktop.ini configuration, or third-party tools like FolderIco for easy, visual customization and better organization.

How to customize folder icons in Windows

If you want to personalize your Windows experience, changing folder icons is a simple way to improve organization and aesthetics.

The operating environment of this tutorial: Dell XPS 13, Windows 11

1. Use Built-in Folder Properties

This method uses Windows' native functionality to change folder icons without third-party tools. It supports both custom icons and system-provided ones.

  • Right-click the folder you want to modify and select Properties.
  • Go to the Customize tab.
  • Click Change Icon.
  • Select from the default icons shown or click Browse to locate a custom .ico file.
  • After selecting an icon, click OK to apply it.

2. Apply a Custom .ICO File

You can use your own icon by preparing a properly formatted .ico file. Windows accepts multiple sizes within a single .ico file for better display across devices.

  • Create or download a .ico file using an icon editor such as IcoFX or Greenfish Icon Editor.
  • Ensure the file includes multiple resolutions (e.g., 16x16, 32x32, 48x48) for clarity.
  • Follow steps in Method 1 but browse to your saved .ico file when prompted.
  • Select the file and confirm with OK.

3. Modify Desktop.ini for Advanced Control

This technique gives full control over how the icon appears and is stored, especially useful for folders shared across systems or backed up regularly.

  • Navigate to the target folder and enable viewing of hidden files via View > Hidden items in File Explorer.
  • Create a new text document inside the folder and name it desktop.ini.
  • Edit the file with Notepad and add these lines:
    [.ShellClassInfo]
    IconResource=C:\Path\To\Your\Icon.ico,0
    [ViewState]
    Mode=
    Vid=
    FolderType=Generic
    
  • Replace C:\Path\To\Your\Icon.ico with the actual path to your icon.
  • Save the file, then right-click the folder > Properties > Customize > Change Icon to refresh if needed.
  • Mark the desktop.ini file as Hidden and set the folder attributes to read-only via Command Prompt if persistence is an issue.

4. Use Third-Party Software

Applications like IconPackager or FolderIco simplify customization with drag-and-drop interfaces and additional styling options.

  • Download and install a trusted tool like FolderIco.
  • Launch the application and select the folder you wish to customize.
  • Choose from built-in color-coded icons or import your own design.
  • Drag and drop the desired icon onto the folder preview in the app.
  • The software automatically updates the folder’s appearance and manages associated files like desktop.ini.

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