ICO file format
| Extension | .ico |
| Category | images |
| Programs | Adobe Photoshop Microsoft Paint Windows Picture and Fax Viewer |
| Description | .ico (Icon File) The .ico format is used for icon files in Microsoft Windows. ICO files contain one or more small images at multiple sizes and color depths, so they may be scaled appropriately in different contexts. These files are commonly used to display a small image next to a website's name in a browser's address bar, as well as for application icons on both Windows desktop and mobile platforms. |
| Technical details | The key technical details: - Multiple Resolutions and Color Depths: Includes images in various sizes and color depths. - Color Support: Supports 24-bit RGB and 32-bit RGB with alpha transparency. - Transparency: Allows for transparent backgrounds. - File Structure: Starts with an icon directory that specifies image details. - Compression: Can utilize PNG for smaller file sizes with lossless compression. - Compatibility: Widely supported in Windows and some graphic software. |
| MIME type | image/ico image/x-icon application/ico application/x-ico application/x-win-bitmap image/x-win-bitmap application/octet-stream |