Favicon
A favicon is a small icon associated with a website that appears next to its name in a browser tab, bookmarks, browsing history, and some search results.
The name comes from the English expression “favorite icon.”
Where a Favicon is Displayed
A favicon can be seen in several places within the browser interface:
- In the tab next to the site’s name;
- In the bookmarks (favorites) list;
- In the browsing history;
- In some search engine results;
- On website shortcuts on mobile devices.
The icon helps users quickly visually identify the desired website among many open tabs.
Why a Favicon is Needed
A favicon serves several important functions:
- Improves the visual recognition of the website;
- Helps users navigate more quickly among tabs;
- Strengthens the branding of the resource;
- Makes the site look more professional and polished.
Favicon Requirements
Typically, a favicon is a small image, most often:
- 16×16 pixels — standard for browser tabs;
- 32×32 or 48×48 pixels — for high-resolution devices.
The most common file formats are:
- .ico
- .png
- .svg (in modern browsers)
Example
For example, search engines or major services often use a simplified logo or brand symbol as their favicon, which is easily recognizable even at a small size.
Key Takeaways
A favicon is a small graphic icon for a website that appears in browser tabs and bookmarks.
It helps users find the site more quickly and enhances the visual recognition of the brand.
