Resolved Can't change default txt file icon

I repeatedly try to change WinXP's default txt file icon, but the icon I change it to will not show up in Windows Explorer after it is refreshed. I've posted a screenshot at http://www.filedropper.com/fileproperties-icon that shows the Windows default icon on the txt file at the right, and JGSoft's Edit Pad Lite icon at the left.

How can I get the icon in the Windows Explorer pane to change from the Windows default icon to the Edit Pad Lite icon?

Thanks in advance.

Frank D

 

Text files are really basic. They have to be read in a very basic form (like booting to a floppy disk). You might be trying to change the "nature" of the file and Windows is not letting you because they may not work any more when a simple operating system tries to open them.

 

Mattman,

I was really confused, because I remember changing some Windows basic file icons before, so I Googled "winxp how to change file icons " (which I should have done in the first place) and I found this article:

http://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/change-file-icon/
Step 1: Open My Computer and go to Tools and then Folder Options.

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Step 2: Click on the File Types tab and you’ll see a listing of all the registered file types on your computer along with the extensions and the icon.​

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Step 3: Scroll down to the file extension you want to change the icon for and then select it in the list. After that, click on the Advanced button at the bottom of the dialog.​

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Step 4: Click the Change Icon button at the top right and choose your replacement icon.​

Looks like my problem was caused by not clicking on the Advanced button in Step 3.

I followed those instructions and kazam! the txt icon is now changed to my preference in Windows Explorer.

I've posted a screenshot at http://www.filedropper.com/fileproperties-icon2

All's well that ends well! Thanks for your help.

Frank D

 

Thanks, Tony! Your answer was right on.

I posted my reply above before I saw your post with the right answer. If I had seen it first I wouldn't have needed to do the Google.

Frank

 

Cool! Shows you how much I try changing them