Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Windows: Desktop Icons Became Black/Corrupted


Problem:
Recently I noticed some icons on my desktop became black/corrupted. I tried pressing F5, killing explorer.exe, and rebooting the computer...but still no luck.


Solution:
You may want to capture a screenshot to save the icons position before proceeding, as Windows may rearrange your icons in the following steps.

1. Right-click on the desktop, select Properties
2. In Display Properties, select Appearance -> Effects...
3. Check "Use large icons"
4. Click OK, and Apply the settings
5. The screen should refresh and the icons should change back to normal
6. Now go back and un-check "Use large icons"


Alternative Solutions:
1. Browse to:
C:\Documents and Settings\username\Local Settings\Application Data

2. Delete IconCache.db
Note: If you do not see the file, click Tools -> Folder Options, and make sure "Show hidden files and folders" is selected

3. Reboot your pc


Ref:
Annoyances.org - Question about 'All of my desktop icons just became corrupted - what do I do'
My Desktop Icons Have Turned Black

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