Windows 10 no longer enabling me to customize desktop icons

Especially executables

Well, as I said, Windows 10 Version 22H2, has suddenly stopped allowing me to customize many of my desktop icons for my shortcuts. Executable programs will only accept the icon of the program, no a custom icon. Does anyone know how to fix this?

224 views 6 replies
Reply #1 Top

What process are you using to apply the custom icons?

Reply #2 Top

I'm just right clicking on the shortcut, clicking properties, and clicking change icon. From there I go to various folders, where I have tons of ico's I have accumulated over the years and choose one for whatever program the shortcut belongs to. This has always worked like a charm, until about a week ago.

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Reply #3 Top

I don't have Windows 10, but I tried changing icons on the desktop of Win32 apps, Windows apps, and Windows Store apps in Windows 11 25H2. I was able to change all three using the process you describe above.

Have you tried restarting your computer to see if that makes a difference?

Reply #4 Top
Quoting The-Reaper-Man,

Well, as I said, Windows 10 Version 22H2, has suddenly stopped allowing me to customize many of my desktop icons for my shortcuts. Executable programs will only accept the icon of the program, no a custom icon. Does anyone know how to fix this?

End of The-Reaper-Man's quote

After I read this I checked mine, and mine is working.  And I also have the windows version you have.

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Reply #5 Top

I don't remember being able to change icons for .exe files; I was only able to change them for shortcuts. I changed icons for .exe files in the past using Resource Hacker. I can still change shortcut icons on Windows IoT Enterprise edition. 

Reply #6 Top

I tested on my Windows 10 VM and it look like I still can change it. But, do note that I am not at the latest Windows 10 OS Build. 

Thank you,

Basj,

Stardock Community  Assistant