.ICO file extension
To open .ICO files on Windows, right-click the .ICO file and select 'Open with'.
.ICO files are used for icons in Windows. Open them with compatible software like image editors or icon viewers.
Last updated: March 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker
Open on your device
Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.
How to open .ICO files
Use these platform-specific instructions to open .ICO files safely.
Windows
- Right-click the .ICO file and select 'Open with'.
- Choose a program like Paint or an icon editor that supports .ICO files.
Mac
- Control-click the .ICO file and select 'Open With'.
- Choose a program like Preview or a third-party icon viewer.
Linux
- Right-click the .ICO file and select 'Open With'.
- Choose an image viewer or editor that supports .ICO files, such as GIMP.
iOS
- Open the .ICO file in the Files app and tap 'Share'.
- Select an app that can handle image files, such as a third-party image viewer.
Android
- Locate the .ICO file in your file manager and tap it.
- Select an app like an image viewer or editor that supports .ICO files.
Security notes
- Open .ICO files only from trusted sources to avoid malicious content.
- Scan files with antivirus software before opening.
- Avoid executing any embedded scripts or macros unless verified.
Recommended antivirus software
Scan files before opening them. These antivirus tools help protect against malware and viruses.
Avast offers free and premium antivirus software that protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing. Scan files before opening them to ensure safety.
NortonNorton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, VPN, and identity theft monitoring. Scan files for threats before opening to keep your device secure.
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Can't open this file?
These are the most common causes and fixes when .ICO files fail to open.
Common reasons
- .ICO file does not open
- Poor quality when scaling
Fix steps
- Install or update a compatible application.
- Ensure the file is complete and from a trusted source.
- Try opening the file on a different platform with compatible software.
OS-specific troubleshooting
Convert .ICO to other formats
Use conversion tools to change .ICO files into formats your software supports.
- .ICO → .3FR
- .ICO → .ARW
- .ICO → .BAY
- .ICO → .BMP
- .ICO → .BMQ
- .ICO → .CINE
- .ICO → .CR2
- .ICO → .CRW
- .ICO → .CS1
- .ICO → .DC2
- .ICO → .DCR
- .ICO → .DNG
- .ICO → .EPS
- .ICO → .ERF
- .ICO → .FFF
- .ICO → .GIF
- .ICO → .HDR
- .ICO → .HEIC
- .ICO → .IA
- .ICO → .JLS
- .ICO → .JP2
- .ICO → .JPEG
- .ICO → .JPG
- .ICO → .K25
- .ICO → .KC2
- .ICO → .KDC
- .ICO → .MDC
- .ICO → .MEF
- .ICO → .MOS
- .ICO → .MRW
- .ICO → .NEF
- .ICO → .NRW
- .ICO → .ORF
- .ICO → .PEF
- .ICO → .PNG
- .ICO → .PSD
- .ICO → .PXN
- .ICO → .QTK
- .ICO → .RAF
- .ICO → .RAW
- .ICO → .RDC
- .ICO → .RW2
- .ICO → .RWL
- .ICO → .SGI
- .ICO → .SR2
- .ICO → .SRF
- .ICO → .SRW
- .ICO → .STI
- .ICO → .SVG
- .ICO → .TGA
- .ICO → .TIFF
- .ICO → .WEBP
- .ICO → .X3F
- .ICO → .XBM
- .ICO → .XPM
What is a .ICO file?
.ICO is an image file format used for icons in Microsoft Windows. It can contain multiple images at different sizes and color depths, allowing for scalable icons.
Background
The .ICO file format is a specialized image format primarily used for icons in Microsoft Windows operating systems. Introduced with Windows 1.0, it has evolved to support color depths up to 32-bit and multiple resolutions, making it versatile for different display settings. Typically, .ICO files are used for application icons, system icons, and website favicons. They contain one or more small images at various sizes and color depths, enabling the operating system to choose the most appropriate image based on the display context. Although primarily associated with Windows, .ICO files can be used on other platforms with compatible software. Their use in web development as favicons has made them a staple in web design, ensuring brand visibility in browser tabs and bookmarks.
Common MIME types: image/vnd.microsoft.icon
Further reading
Authoritative resources for more details on the .ICO format.
Common .ICO issues
.ICO file does not open
The file may not open if the necessary application is not installed or the file is corrupted.
- Install or update a compatible application.
- Ensure the file is complete and from a trusted source.
- Try opening the file on a different platform with compatible software.
Poor quality when scaling
Icons may look pixelated if the .ICO file lacks multiple resolutions.
- Use an icon editor to add additional resolutions.
- Ensure the .ICO file contains high-resolution images.
FAQ
Can I convert a file to .ICO by renaming it?
No, renaming a file does not convert its format. Use a conversion tool or export function.
Is it safe to open .ICO files?
Yes, if they are from a trusted source and opened with reputable software.
Can .ICO files be used on websites?
Yes, .ICO files are commonly used as favicons for websites.
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