Changing the folder icon on Windows 10 is a breeze. You just need to right-click the folder, go to Properties, hit Customize, and then Change Icon. Select your new icon, apply the changes, and voila! Your folder looks different now. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide for more details.
How to Change Folder Icon on Windows 10
Changing your folder icon can make your desktop more fun and organized. Follow these steps to give your folders a unique look.
Step 1: Right-click on the folder
Right-click the folder you want to change.
When you right-click, a context menu appears. This menu offers various actions you can take concerning the folder, such as opening, sharing, or deleting it. For now, we are interested in the “Properties” option.
Step 2: Click on Properties
Select “Properties” from the context menu.
The Properties window gives you information about the folder and allows you to tweak various settings. This is your control center for making changes to the folder’s attributes.
Step 3: Navigate to the Customize tab
Click on the “Customize” tab at the top of the Properties window.
The Customize tab is where you can change the folder’s look and behavior. Here, you can choose a new icon, change the folder’s picture, and even optimize it for specific types of files.
Step 4: Click on Change Icon
Click the “Change Icon” button at the bottom of the Customize tab.
This opens a new dialogue box filled with various icon options. You can choose from the default icons or browse for a custom icon file.
Step 5: Select your new icon
Choose your new icon from the list or browse for a custom one, then click OK.
After selecting your new icon, click the “OK” button to confirm your choice. Your icon will now be displayed next to your folder in the dialogue box.
Step 6: Apply the changes
Click “Apply” and then “OK” in the Properties window to save your changes.
Once you apply the changes, your folder will immediately update to show the new icon you selected. You can now enjoy your newly customized folder.
After completing these steps, your folder icon will be changed. The new icon will help you easily identify the folder, making your desktop or file explorer more visually distinct.
Tips for Changing Folder Icon on Windows 10
- Use High-Quality Icons: High-resolution icons look better and make your folder stand out.
- Organize by Color: Assign different colors to different folder types for easy identification.
- Custom Icons: Download custom icons from reputable sites to personalize your folders even more.
- Backup Icons: Keep a backup of your favorite icons, so you can easily restore them if needed.
- Use Appropriate Icons: Choose icons that represent the folder’s contents to make navigation easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I revert to the original icon?
Yes, you can. Just follow the same steps and select the original icon from the default options.
Are there any risks in changing folder icons?
No, changing folder icons is a safe way to personalize your computer. It doesn’t affect the actual data in the folder.
Can I use my own images as folder icons?
Yes, you can convert images to .ico files using online tools and then use them as icons.
Will changing an icon affect the folder’s contents?
No, it only changes the folder’s appearance. The contents remain unchanged.
Can I change icons for multiple folders at once?
No, you have to change the icon for each folder individually.
Summary
- Right-click on the folder.
- Click on Properties.
- Navigate to the Customize tab.
- Click on Change Icon.
- Select your new icon.
- Apply the changes.
Conclusion
Changing folder icons on Windows 10 is a simple and effective way to personalize your computer. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can quickly transform the look of your folders, making your desktop not only more organized but also visually appealing.
Whether you’re using default icons or custom images, the process is straightforward and safe. The ability to use custom icons adds a layer of personalization that can make your computer truly feel like your own.
So, go ahead and give it a try. Customize one folder and see how it feels. You might find it so helpful that you’ll want to change the icons of all your folders. And if you ever want to revert to the original icons, you know exactly how to do it. Happy customizing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.