An ICO file is the classic favicon format: the small icon shown in browser tabs, bookmarks and history. Browsers still look for /favicon.ico by default, so having one is the safest way to make sure your site shows an icon everywhere.
You do not need design software to make one. This guide shows how to convert any PNG or JPG into an ICO for free, and how to add it to your site.
Key Takeaway: Start from a square image that is larger than you need, such as 512x512. Icons are tiny, so simple shapes and strong contrast read best.
Step by Step: Convert an Image to ICO
- Open the Favicon Generator.
- Upload a square PNG or JPG (a logo or icon works best).
- Preview the result at each size.
- Download the ZIP. It includes favicon.ico (built from the 32x32 size) and PNG files at 16, 32, 48, 64, 128 and 256 pixels.
Everything is generated in your browser. Your image is not uploaded to a server.
Add the Favicon to Your Website
Upload the files to the root of your site, then paste this into the <head> of your pages (the ZIP also includes it in a README):
<link rel="icon" type="image/x-icon" href="/favicon.ico"> <link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="32x32" href="/favicon-32.png"> <link rel="icon" type="image/png" sizes="16x16" href="/favicon-16.png"> <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="128x128" href="/favicon-128.png">
For a longer walkthrough, see our guide to generating a favicon for free.
Tips for a Favicon That Looks Good
- Use a square source. Non-square images get squeezed or cropped. Use the Crop tool first if needed.
- Keep it simple. At 16x16 pixels, fine detail and small text disappear. A single letter or bold shape works well.
- Use transparency wisely. A PNG with a transparent background shows the browser theme behind it, so check it on light and dark tabs.
- Start large. A 512x512 source scales down cleanly. Scaling a small image up gives blurry icons.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert a PNG to ICO for free?
Upload your PNG to the TinyPNG Now Favicon Generator and download the ZIP. It contains favicon.ico plus PNG sizes from 16x16 to 256x256, generated in your browser with no signup.
What size should an ICO or favicon image be?
Start from a square image, ideally 512x512 or at least 256x256. The generator scales it down to the standard favicon sizes.
Do I still need favicon.ico in 2026?
Browsers still request /favicon.ico by default, so having one is the safest way to guarantee an icon shows up. You can add PNG icons alongside it for modern browsers and devices.
Can I convert a JPG to ICO?
Yes. The generator accepts common image formats such as PNG and JPG. A PNG with a transparent background usually looks best, since JPG cannot be transparent.
Is it safe to make a favicon online?
With TinyPNG Now, yes. The icon is generated entirely inside your browser, so your logo is never uploaded to a server.
Summary: Upload a square image to the free Favicon Generator, download the ZIP, upload favicon.ico to your site root and paste the link tags into your head.