How to open ICO files
Strong for favicons and Windows icons. When a browser or application cannot decode the file directly, convert a copy to JPG for compatibility or PNG when transparency and lossless graphics matter.
When to use ICO
- Favicons
- Windows application icons
- Multi-size icon delivery
Best settings for ICO
- Use ICO for Windows app icons, desktop shortcuts, and legacy favicon workflows.
- Start from a clean square PNG or SVG export when possible, then create an ICO derivative.
- Use PNG for general web graphics and reserve ICO for places that explicitly request an icon container.
Compatibility checklist
- ICO can contain multiple sizes, but a converter may export one 256x256 representation.
- Transparent icon edges should be inspected against both light and dark backgrounds.
- Photographs rarely make good ICO files unless they are simplified into an icon-like crop.
Limits to consider
- Designed for icons rather than photographs
- A source file may contain several resolutions
Convert ICO images
Choose an output based on the destination, not just file size. Conversion runs locally in your browser whenever the required decoder is available.