Hello! Little by little the renovations that Windows 10 Sun Valley will bring has been revealed. We are talking about the next major update of Windows 10. In fact, here we have talked about some of them. For example, a new start menu. On the other hand, it was recently revealed that it will include a new design for folder icons. Which will leave behind the classic yellow color. Likewise, we show you how to change the color of these folders. Of course, with a third-party application. The novelty is that this change will be integrated into the system. Now, all this was unveiled in a Windows Insider edition. So it is not yet available for the general user. But don’t worry, today we will see how to use the new folder icons in Windows 10. Without having to belong to the Windows Insider Program.
Learn how to install the new Windows 10 folder icons
This icon theme has been created by DevianArt user niivu. He has a great reputation for creating custom themes for Windows 10. Indeed, the folder icons are a replica of the icons presented by Microsoft. However, this theme customizes more icons than just the main folders. The rest of the theme is an adaptation of the Fluent pattern implemented in Windows 10, resulting in a sober and well-done style. The installation of the icons is a relatively simple procedure. However, it is necessary to use an application to apply it. Please follow the steps below:
- The first thing you have to do is to download the compressed file from DevianArt, then unzip it wherever you want.
- After unzipping, you will see a folder called Windows 10 Insider Preview Icons.
- Inside this folder, there are several files. The icon pack is the file 7TSP Windows 10 Insider.7z.remove.
- You must rename the icon package. With this in mind, please delete the word remove. Consequently, the file will look like this:
- Once the package is ready, it is necessary to download the program needed to apply it. The app is 7TSP GUI 2019 Edition and you can download it for free from here.
- Please unzip the downloaded .zip file. Inside the folder will be a file named 7tsp GUI v0.6(2019).ee. You must repeat the above process, i.e. rename it. In this case, you have to change the .ee extension to .exe. In other words, turn it into an executable program: 7tsp GUI v0.6(2019).exe
Starting installation
- Now, run the program 7tsp GUI v0.6(2019).exe. Then, click on Add Custom Pack.
- Next, select the previously renamed 7TSP Windows 10 Insider.7z icon package. Please click on Start Patching.
- The application creates a restore point before applying the icon pack. This is a safety measure in case something goes wrong. Also, the process takes a while as there are a lot of icons.
- During the installation process, the shell and Windows Explorer will be restarted. Don’t worry, this is normal. Consequently, you will not be able to use the system normally for a few moments.
- After restarting the system, you will see the brand-new icons already installed.
And just like that we have seen how to use the new Windows 10 folder icons. Bye!
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With the latest Windows 10 build in the Dev channel, Microsoft has updated the Start menu folder icons used to show the app groups. The change is now available in Windows build 20161.
Here is a quick comparison of the new and old icons.
Old icons:
New icons:
The icons look less flat, and follow the Fluent Design guidelines. As you can see in the above screenshot, they nicely suit the modern colorful app icons Microsoft has recently rolled out to the public.
The new icons are part of the new Start menu, which Microsoft today made available to more users. As you may remember, it was disabled for majority of the Insiders.
The company describes the change as ‘a more streamlined design that removes the solid color backplates behind the logos in the apps list and applies a uniform, partially transparent background to the tiles. This design creates a beautiful stage for your apps, especially the Fluent Design icons for Office and Microsoft Edge, as well as the redesigned icons for built-in apps like Calculator, Mail, and Calendar that Microsoft started rolling out earlier this year’.
The updated Start menu has an attractive appearance.
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how to make custom folder icons windows 10
Ever wanted to give your Windows 10 folder icons a personal touch? It’s easier than you think! In just a few simple steps, you can transform those boring yellow folders into something truly unique. First, you’ll need an icon file (.ico format). Once you have that, right-click the folder, access its properties, and navigate through the customization options. Select your chosen icon, and voila! Your folder now stands out from the crowd.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to change your default folder icons to custom ones that better represent their contents or just look cooler!
Step 1: Prepare Your Icon File
First, make sure you have an icon file (.ico) ready for use.
Without an icon file, you can’t proceed. You can easily convert images to .ico format using online converters or design your own using icon editing software.
Step 2: Right-Click the Folder
Next, right-click the folder you want to customize.
A context menu will appear, offering several options. This is where you start the customization process.
Step 3: Select «Properties»
From the context menu, click on «Properties.»
A new window will pop up, showing various options to manage and customize the folder.
Step 4: Navigate to the «Customize» Tab
In the Properties window, click on the «Customize» tab.
This tab contains all the options you’ll need to change your folder’s appearance.
Step 5: Click «Change Icon»
Under the «Folder icons» section, click on the «Change Icon» button.
Another window will open, allowing you to browse and select your custom icon file.
Step 6: Choose Your Icon
Browse to the location of your .ico file and select it.
Once selected, your chosen icon will appear in the preview section. Confirm your choice to apply the new icon to your folder.
Step 7: Apply and OK
Click «Apply,» then «OK» to finalize your changes.
Your folder icon will now update to your selected custom icon.
After completing these steps, your folder will proudly display its new, custom icon. This can make it easier to identify important folders or just add a bit of flair to your desktop.
Tips for How to Make Custom Folder Icons Windows 10
-
Backup Your Icons: Keep a copy of your .ico files in a safe place, just in case you need to reapply them.
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Use High-Resolution Icons: Higher resolution icons look better and are more distinguishable.
-
Consistent Theme: Stick to a consistent theme for all your custom icons to give your desktop a uniform look.
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Use Descriptive Icons: Choose icons that represent the folder’s contents for easier identification.
-
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different icons to see what works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I revert to the default folder icon?
To revert, go to the folder’s properties, select the “Customize” tab, click “Change Icon” and then “Restore Defaults.”
Can I use any image file as an icon?
No, the image must be in .ico format. You can convert other image formats into .ico using online tools.
Will changing the icon affect the folder’s contents?
No, changing the icon only affects how the folder appears, not its contents.
Can I change multiple folder icons at once?
Unfortunately, Windows 10 doesn’t support bulk changes for folder icons. You’ll need to change them individually.
Do custom folder icons work on external drives?
Yes, as long as you keep the .ico files on the same drive. If the icon files are on a different drive, the folders will revert to default icons.
Summary
- Prepare your icon file.
- Right-click the folder.
- Select «Properties.»
- Navigate to the «Customize» tab.
- Click «Change Icon.»
- Choose your icon.
- Apply and OK.
Conclusion
Customizing folder icons in Windows 10 is a straightforward way to make your computer more user-friendly and visually appealing. Whether you’re a neat freak who wants everything perfectly organized or someone who just enjoys a bit of creative flair, custom icons can make a big difference.
Once you get the hang of it, you might find yourself changing icons for all kinds of folders, making your digital workspace as unique as you are. Plus, this little customization trick can also make it easier to locate important files and folders, streamlining your workflow.
For more tips and tricks on personalizing your Windows experience, consider exploring other customization options like desktop themes and screen savers. Dive in and make your computer truly yours!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.
Read his full bio here.
What do you think about the default icons on Windows 11/10? Well, they look great, but with time appear boring, isn’t it? You would have tried to cut the boredom by customizing your device by changing the themes and fonts. But you can take this customization to a whole new level by changing the default Windows icons and making your PC look unique and better sorted. In this Windows guide, we take you through the different ways to change any icons on Windows 11/10.
Why customize Windows 11/10 icons?
Killing ennui is just one reason, customization can be done for many different purposes. A few of them include:
- Give your PC a personal spin
- Make your environment look catchy and trendy
- Make your system more user-friendly
- Highlight the importance of a particular icon by making it look unique
- To locate an important icon immediately from a huge crowd of icons
Along with the array of benefits listed above, there are many different types of icons that can be modified on Windows 10. These include desktop icons, taskbar icons, folder icons, and shortcut icons. To know how to customize these, let’s move on the method.
Where can you find new or custom icons for Windows 11/10?
Before we can start changing icons on Windows 11/10, we will need some icons to replace the existing ones. The Operating System has a collection of built-in icons, but they might not be that great. The good news is that there are many online resources offering millions of high-quality impressive icons. You can grab them in a pack at once, or download single icons based on your likings. Few popular icon repositories are FlatIcon, Findicons, IconArchive, DeviantArt, or GraphicBurger – all of these have loads of free icons.
In case you just can’t find the icon of your choice, you can even try making high-resolution icons out of any image.
Now let’s look at the methods of changing different types of icons one after one-
- Desktop icons
- Shortcut icons
- Taskbar icons
- Folder icons
- File icons
- Drive icons.
1] Customize your Desktop Icons
What are ‘Desktop Icons’? The icons like This PC, Network, Recycle Bin, and your User folder all fall in this category. Even though modern versions of Windows do not show them all on the desktop, users can always restore these missing icons and have them appear on your system’s desktop or even change these icons even if they appear elsewhere on your system.
To customize or change your file or folder icons in Windows 11, do the following:
- From the WinX Menu, open Windows 11 Settings
- Click on Personalization settings
- Select Themes
- Scroll down a bit till you see Desktop icon settings
- Clicking on it will open the Desktop Icon Setttings box
- Select the checkbox corresponding to the specific item whose icon you wish to customize.
- Hit the Change Icon button.
- From the new panel that opens, choose from these in-built Windows icons or Browse to your own icon.
- Once set, click on Apply and exit.
For customizing desktop icons in Windows 10 follow the below-mentioned steps which are similar:
1] Go to ‘Settings’
2] Hit ‘Personalization’
3] Now click on ‘Themes’, and go to ‘Desktop Icon Settings’.
4] Once you click on ‘Desktop Icon Settings’ a separate ‘Desktop Icon Settings’ window will appear.
5] In the ‘Desktop Icons’ section, check the checkbox corresponding to the specific item whose icon you wish to customize.
6] Now hit the ‘Change Icon’ button.
7] Once you click the ‘Change Icon’ button, a list of different in-built icons will appear on the screen. To choose from these in-built Windows icons select one and hit the ‘OK’ button.
This will change the icon.
To select a custom icon hit the ‘Browse’ button to go to the folder having the icon of your choice and hit ‘Open’ to upload the icon on the Windows icon list; then select the uploaded icon. Also, if you browse for your own icons, you can select any EXE, DLL, or ICO file.
8] Finally, click the ‘Apply’ button and then hit on the ‘OK’ button to save your settings.
Now, your ‘Computer’ icon will look like the below image.
To reverse the change, go back to the ‘Desktop Icon Settings’ window, hit ‘Restore Default’ button and hit ‘Apply’ and then click ‘Ok’ to save settings.
2] Customize Shortcut Icons
Adding a shortcut for folders and applications makes things very easy and simple on any operating system. Users can alter the icon for a shortcut in Windows and this works for all sorts of shortcuts including a shortcut to an app, folder, or even Command Prompt command. Here are the steps to customize any shortcut icon:
1] Go to your ‘Desktop’ and select the shortcut you wish to change the icon for
2] Right-click the shortcut and select ‘Properties’.
3] On the ‘Shortcut’ tab, select the ‘Change Icon’ button.
4] This opens the standard ‘Change Icon’ window you saw above.
5] Now follow the same steps as listed in the above ‘Desktop Icon’ option to select the icon and apply settings.
3] Customize your Taskbar Icons
The icons pinned to your taskbar are also shortcuts; you can customize these in nearly the same way that you customize any shortcut icon. But there are a few things you would need to keep in mind here:
- You can customize only those icons that are pinned to the taskbar and not the ones which are currently running and appearing there.
- For an app that is pinned, but is currently running, you will need to close the app to begin customizing the shortcut icon.
Start by holding the ‘Shift’ key and right-click the app icon and choose ‘Properties’.
Now, follow the same steps as listed in the ‘Desktop Icon’ option above to set a new icon.
4] Customize Folder Icons
To customize the Folder icons in Windows 10, perform the following steps:
1] Right-click the folder and select ‘Properties’ in the context menu.
2] Select ‘Customize’ and hit ‘Change Icon’ in the Properties window.
3] You can replace the folder icon with a basic/personalized icon.
4] Now click ‘OK’ to save the changes.
5] Finally, hit ‘OK’ to finish changing the folder icon.
Done, this will change your specific folder icons.
You might want to also take a look at these Free software to change the Folder icon color.
5] Customize Specific File Types Icons
Personalizing the icon of a specific type of file demands third-party tools like File Types Manager. Follow these steps:
1] Get freeware FileTypesMan on your system
2] In the ‘Find Box’ locate the file type that you want to change its icon for.
3] Now close the Find box.
4] Right-click the file and choose ‘Edit Selected File Type’.
5] In Default Icon option, click the 3-dots button in the pop-out window.
6] Select one of the existing icons or input your own icon by clicking Browse > click OK.
7] Finally, hit ‘Ok’ to execute the changes.
7] Change Drive icons
You can change the Icons of your Windows Drives by tweaking the Registry or easily using freeware Drive Icon Changer or My Drive Icon.
In this way, you can customize different types of icons in Windows 10. So, keep customizing and add new and interesting icons to your applications or folders. And yes, if you wish to revert the changes, you will only need to hit the ‘Restore Defaults’ button in the corresponding Properties window and click on it.
How do I customize Windows 11 File Explorer?
You can try some things to customize Windows 11 File Explorer. These things include changing the icon size of files, showing or hiding Navigation, Details, and Preview panes, showing the hidden items, enabling or disabling the checkboxes, showing or hiding the file name extensions, etc.
Read next: How to Resize Desktop icons or Change Explorer View type quickly.
Do you not like the default icon used for a specific folder in Windows 10/11? Want to change the folder icon to your favorite photo or icon? This guide will show you how to change the folder icon in Windows 10/11.
Change the folder icon for a specific folder in Windows 10/11
Step 1: In the File Explorer, right-click the folder you want to customize by setting a different icon and then click the Properties option.
NOTE: You cannot change the icon of multiple folders at once. So, please select only one folder at a time.
Tip: After selecting a folder, you can open the properties dialog with Alt + Enter hotkey.
Step 2: In the Properties dialog, click on the Customize tab.
Step 3: Under the Customize tab, click on the Change icon button.
Step 4: In the File name field, type %SystemRoot%\System32\SHELL32.dll (if not available by default) and click the Open button to see system icons. You can select one of the many icons available here.
However, if you wish to use a custom icon, click the Browse button to navigate to the icon you want to use as the folder icon.
Note that you cannot set a picture file as a folder icon by default, as standard picture file types such as PNG and JPEG are not allowed. The folder icon must be in .ico format. So, if you like to set a photo as a folder icon, please use one of the many online picture to icon converts and then repeat these steps.
Step 5: Select the icon file and then click the Open button.
Step 6: Finally, click on the Apply button to set the selected icon as your folder icon.
The new folder icon should appear immediately. If not, you can restart Windows 10/11 or refresh the icon cache to see the new folder icon.
Change the folder icon & color for all folders in Windows 10/11
Although Windows 10 and 11 support changing the icon of a specific folder, they do not allow changing the folder icon of all folders at once. If you are not happy with the default folder icons, you can consider using third-party programs to change the default folder icon as well as the color.
Folder Painter and Folder Marker are two of the free software available to change the folder icon and color. Refer to our four free folder color-changing tools guide to learn more about these third-party programs.