.ICO File Type
File extension: ICO or .ico
Description: Windows Icon
Author of the .ico file extension: Microsoft Corporation
Category: System file
Programs that use the .ico file type: Windows Operating System, Visual Studio, Adobe Photoshop, IvanView, IconEdit2, SibCode Sib Icon Editor, Program4Pc PC Icon Editor
Explanation of .ico file extensions:
The .ico file extension stands for icon. It is an image format used for storing icons for programs, folders, and files. An .ico file contains two bitmaps: the AND and the XOR. The AND bitmap which is an image mask determines which part of the icon is transparent while the XOR bitmap contains and maps the icon to the image mask.
An .ico file can be modified to customize icons.
If you’ve ever noticed the tiny icons found in the address bar of your web browser, that is the result of a file called favicon.ico. When a website has favicon.ico, the icon will appear in the address bar to the left of the URL. For example, Microsoft websites sport a blue box with an “M” as their favicon.ico image. These icons must be 16 by 16 pixels and stored in the website’s root directory.
Typical problems associated with the .ico file extension:
One of the most common problems with .ico files is that they won’t display properly. For example, you can’t simply name an image with the .ico extension. You will need an icon editing program to do so.
Solutions/Recommendations:
If you want to create your own favicon.ico file to display on your website’s address bar, you will need to create a 16x16 bitmap image in an icon editor and save it with the .ico file extension with the name “favicon.” Next, store it in the root directory of your website. Internet Explorer automatically looks for the favicon.ico file and will display it provided that it is a true .ico file of the correct size.
Associated links:
IfranView - http://irfanview.tuwien.ac.at/
fileextensiontype.com