Click OK , then Apply . Your new icon will appear on the desktop. Note: You cannot change the "This PC" icon if your desktop shows "This PC" as a File Explorer shortcut. Use Method 3 below for that. Method 2: Change Any Standard Folder Icon Want your "Projects" folder to look different from "Downloads"? Here’s how.
Now go make your desktop truly yours!
Click OK to apply. Important: This only works on shortcuts (files with a small arrow overlay). It will not change the icon for the original .exe file itself. Method 4: Change the Taskbar or Start Menu Icon (Advanced) Windows 11 makes this harder than previous versions. You cannot directly change a pinned taskbar icon. how to change icons on windows 11
Right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select Personalization .
Click OK again. The folder icon will update immediately. Tip: To revert, follow the same steps and click Restore Default . Method 3: Change a Shortcut Icon (Apps, Programs, "This PC" shortcut) This works for any .exe shortcut on your desktop or taskbar (but not for pinned Start menu icons). Click OK , then Apply
Go to the Shortcut tab.
Under "Related settings," click Desktop icon settings . Use Method 3 below for that
Browse to your .ico file, select it, and click OK .