Favicon is a small image (16×16 pixels), which is shown in your browsers location bar, next to the URL. The easiest way to create one is to use an icon editing software. Don`t have one? No problem. You can download it for free form our Webmaster Center. You can also use one of the online favicon generators you will find at the bottom of this page.
How do I create a Favicon .ico File ?
- Create an image that is 16×16 pixels in size. You could also use an image you like and resize it. But remember, the image has to be in proportion (50×50, 100×100) or your favicon will not look good.
- Save the image as an .ICO file. Name it exactly: "favicon.ico" or it will not work. Upload it to your website s root directory (that`s next to your index.htm file).
- Add the following lines of code inside the <head> section of your pages.
<link rel="shortcut icon" xhref="http://example.com/favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" />
<link rel="icon" xhref="http://example.com/favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon" />
- You re done.
Testing the Favicon
If you are using Internet Explorer and your favicon is not showing up, make sure you clear your browsers cache. You can do it by pressing Ctrl and F5 at the same time.
Favicon Benefits or Why should I use a Favorites Icon?
Have you ever asked yourself why do all the big companies have favicons?
Here are the reasons:
- Favicon or a page icon is a great tool to brand your website. Since many pages still don`t have a favicon, your page will stand out from others!
- Your site will gain a professional and unique look, which can cause more links to your site and that means better rankings in search engines.
- You will save bandwidth since pages without favicons produce 404 File not found error files.
Free Online Favicon generators:
No problem if you don`t have an image editor. You can create your icon online. Try some of these great favicon makers.
- 1Favicon – great website with lots of information about favicon.ico and a Tutorial to make your own.
- Favicon Maker
- Dynamic Drive Favicon Generator
- Favicon text generator
- Graphics Guru Favicon Tool