Changing app icons on Windows 11 is a simple process that can add a personal touch to your computer. By following a few easy steps, you can customize the appearance of your desktop and make it truly your own.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Change App Icons on Windows 11
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s understand what we’re about to do. Changing an app icon means replacing the default image that represents an application with a new one of your choice. This could be for aesthetic reasons or to make an app easier to find.
Step 1: Choose the app you want to change
Select the app whose icon you wish to change. This could be anything from your web browser to your favorite game.
When you’ve decided on the app, right-click on its shortcut on the desktop. If it’s not there, you’ll need to create one by searching for the app in the Start Menu, right-clicking it, and selecting "Create shortcut".
Step 2: Access the properties menu
Right-click on the app shortcut and select "Properties" at the bottom of the context menu.
In the properties window, you’ll see several tabs at the top. You need to be in the "Shortcut" tab to change the app icon.
Step 3: Change the icon
In the Shortcut tab, click on the "Change Icon…" button near the bottom of the window.
A new window will pop up with a selection of icons that are associated with the app. You can choose one of these or click "Browse" to find a custom icon that you’ve downloaded or created.
Step 4: Apply the changes
Once you’ve selected a new icon, hit "OK" in the Change Icon window, and then "Apply" in the Properties window.
You might need to refresh your desktop or restart your computer for the changes to take effect. But once done, the new icon will represent the app on your desktop.
After completing these steps, your chosen app will now have a new icon that you’ve selected. This small change can make a big difference to your desktop’s appearance and can make it feel more personalized.
Tips: Maximizing the Impact of Your New App Icons on Windows 11
- Make sure the icons you choose are high resolution so they look crisp and clear on your screen.
- Consider the overall theme or color scheme of your desktop when choosing new icons to create a cohesive look.
- Use icons that are easy to recognize at a glance to make finding your apps easier.
- If you’re not confident creating your own icons, plenty of websites offer free or premium icons for download.
- Remember, you can always change the icons back to their defaults if you don’t like the new ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I revert to the original icon after changing it?
Right-click the app shortcut, select "Properties", go to the "Shortcut" tab, click "Change Icon…", and either select the original icon from the list or hit "Restore Defaults".
Can I change the icons of apps pinned to the taskbar?
No, Windows 11 does not currently allow custom icons for apps pinned to the taskbar.
What types of image files can I use for custom icons?
Windows typically uses .ico files for icons, but you can also use .png or .bmp files.
How can I create my own custom icons?
You can use image editing software like Adobe Photoshop or free online converters to turn any image into an .ico file.
Can I change folder icons as well?
Yes, the process is similar to changing app icons. Right-click the folder, select "Properties", go to the "Customize" tab, and click "Change Icon…".
Summary
- Choose the app to change
- Access the properties menu
- Change the icon
- Apply the changes
Conclusion
Customizing your app icons on Windows 11 is an easy and fun way to personalize your computer. With just a few clicks, you can transform your desktop into a space that reflects your style and preferences. Whether you want to make your computer more visually appealing or just want to organize your apps in a way that makes them easier to find, changing app icons is a great place to start. Remember to keep your icons coherent with the overall look of your desktop and to choose images that are easy to recognize. Happy customizing!
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.