How to Change Icons of Documents for Windows Vista

Windows Vista supplies a variety of icons, accessible from three main icon files, and you can change the icon for any document shortcut. If you tire of your available choices, you can find more icons on your computer or online, or create your own with graphics software such as Microsoft Paint. Use your new icons to identify documents, classify file types or reflect your mood.

Instructions

1. Right-click on the desktop icon you wish to change.

2. Click "Create Shortcut."

3. Right-click the newly created shortcut icon.

4. Click "Properties," then "Change Icon."

5. Choose from the default icons (stored in C:\Windows\System32\imageres.dll). Double-click on an appealing icon.

6. Select from an alternate selection of icons. Under "Look for icons in this file," change the filename to "C:\Windows\System32\shell32.dll," and double-click on the icon you want.

7. Choose from a third group of icons. Change the filename to "C:\Windows\System32\moricons.dll," and double-click on an icon.

8. Click "OK," and your desktop will display the new icon.

Tips & Warnings

• Find more icons, including those you've created yourself. Perform a wildcard search for files with an ".ico" suffix ("*.ico"). Thumbnail previews will show you available icon files. Find one you like, and make note of the file path. Use this path when browsing for an icon.

References

• "Windows Vista Tips & Tricks;" Stuart Yarnold; 2007
• Windows VistaForums: How to Change a Shortcut Folder or File Icon in Vista