.ico file extension

.ico

Microsoft Windows icon image file. An icon is a small image which is used to represent the application. Icons can also be associated with web pages.

favicon.ico

A file used on websites to hold a favourites icon (or favicon), which is the icon displayed in the browser for the webpage. The file name is traditionally favicon.ico, but does not need to have this name.

For more information see:

• www.daubnet.com/en/file-format-ico - File format information for .ico files.
• http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms997538.asp - This article describes in detail the format and use of icons in Windows.
• www.irfanview.com - A excellent image manipulation program (freeware) for Windows which can be used to create and edit .ico files.
• www.chami.com/html-kit/services/favicon/ - an online tool for converting an image to a favicon.ico file.
• www.cryer.co.uk/resources/javascript/html7_add_a_page_icon.htm - How to add a favicon to a web page.
• http://icofx.ro/ - Excellent commercial icon editor.

Can you add to this? Do you know of any applications not already listed which will work with .ico files, view .ico files or open .ico files? Are you able to contribute any additional reference information or file format information about .ico files or have you spotted any errors or omissions? If so please let us know by emailing us at feedback@cryer.co.uk - Thank you.