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.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.

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Last updated: March 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker

What “reviewed” means on this page
  • Format fit: whether the “what is this file?” description plausibly matches common real-world use of the extension, including category, typical MIME types, and aliases.
  • Opening paths: whether Windows / macOS / Linux steps read plausibly for current OS dialogs and default apps. Not every step was tested on every OS version.
  • Security framing: whether risk notes match the extension class (for example executables vs plain data) and whether affiliate wording does not contradict the security section.
  • Sources and further reading: external links should point to vendors, standards bodies, or other primary references where possible; not every detail is individually sourced.
  • Limits: this is clarity and safety-messaging QA, not a guarantee that every statement is exhaustive or that every binary you download is harmless. Pages without “Reviewed by” have not been through this editorial pass yet.

Full methodology in the Imprint — The Imprint also states where AI is used and what that does—and does not—replace.

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

  1. Right-click the .ICO file and select 'Open with'.
  2. Choose a program like Paint or an icon editor that supports .ICO files.
Full Windows guide

Mac

  1. Control-click the .ICO file and select 'Open With'.
  2. Choose a program like Preview or a third-party icon viewer.
Full Mac guide

Linux

  1. Right-click the .ICO file and select 'Open With'.
  2. Choose an image viewer or editor that supports .ICO files, such as GIMP.
Full Linux guide

iOS

  1. Open the .ICO file in the Files app and tap 'Share'.
  2. Select an app that can handle image files, such as a third-party image viewer.
Full iOS guide

Android

  1. Locate the .ICO file in your file manager and tap it.
  2. Select an app like an image viewer or editor that supports .ICO files.
Full Android guide

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.

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

  1. Install or update a compatible application.
  2. Ensure the file is complete and from a trusted source.
  3. Try opening the file on a different platform with compatible software.

Recover a deleted or lost .ICO file

If the file was deleted by mistake or the drive was formatted, data recovery software may be able to get it back. Stop writing to that drive right away, because new data can overwrite what you want to recover.

MiniTool Power Data Recovery

Windows software that recovers deleted or lost files from PCs and external drives such as HDDs, SSDs, USB drives and memory cards, after deletion, formatting or a crash.

Wondershare Recoverit

Windows and Mac software that recovers deleted or lost files from computers and external drives such as HDDs, SSDs, USB drives and SD cards.

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OS-specific troubleshooting

Convert .ICO to other formats

Use conversion tools to change .ICO files into formats your software supports.

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.

  1. Install or update a compatible application.
  2. Ensure the file is complete and from a trusted source.
  3. 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.

  1. Use an icon editor to add additional resolutions.
  2. 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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