How to open ICO files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems
When you encounter a problem with an unknown ICO file and you do not know how to open such file, the first step you should take is to determine the cause of given problem. We will show you how to address most common problems with ICO files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.
ICO File Extension
- File type Icon Format
- File developer N/A
- File category System Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) ICO file?
A system file with the extension .ICO is characteristic of Windows. It is similar to the typical macOS .ICNS format and another Microsoft extension .CUR, as they store from one to several icon images. Each graphic has a different size from 16x16 to 256x256, which allows dynamic scaling depending on the device resolution and zoom. The file can have 32 bits (24-bit images with 8-bit alpha channels) or less - image mask (AND) transparency and bitmap (XOR) for the mapped icon.
How to open ICO file?
In some cases problems may occur when trying to open ICO files. Steps listed below can be helpful in addressing such problems.
Step 1 – Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software
The first thing user should do is to associate application with ICO files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports ICO files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with ICO files. In order to associate such files with given application, user must open the file menu (by right-clicking on the file) and choosing "Open with". A list of suggested applications will be displayed at the top part of menu. Next, select an application and confirm your choice by checking "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" option. Confirm your selection by clicking OK.
In order to open ICO file, focus on steps 1 and 2
In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with ICO extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.
Step 2 – Install a program that supports ICO files
Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting ICO files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:
Programs that support files with ICO extension
Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors
- Corrupted storage medium on which the ICO file is stored
- File data corruption or incompleteness (for example, due to incomplete download or copy process). In such case the file must be re-downloaded or properly copied and then opened again.
- Compatibility issues – check whether ICO extension is compatible with user’s operating system
- Administrative policy settings may prevent user from opening given file
Step 4 – Contact an expert
If you are still unable to open ICO file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports ICO files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.
