Where it shows up
You see favicons in browser tabs and bookmark bars. Google also shows them beside results in mobile search, and phones use a larger version when someone saves a site to their home screen.
Sizes and formats
Sites usually provide a few sizes, from small tab icons to larger app-style icons. Google recommends a square image whose size is a multiple of 48 pixels. Common formats include ICO, PNG and SVG.
How to add one
Most website platforms have a setting to upload a favicon. On custom sites, a developer adds the files and a few lines in the page's head section so browsers know where to find them.
Why Favicon matters
A favicon is small, but it helps people spot your site among open tabs and makes your search listing look more trustworthy. A missing or generic icon can make a business look unfinished.
From blank tab to brand
A boutique's site showed the platform's default icon in every tab and search result. Adding a simple square version of its logo made the site easier to find among open tabs and gave its search listing a more polished look.
Common mistakes
Shrinking a detailed logo
A full logo with small text turns into a smudge at tab size. Use a simple mark or initial that reads well when tiny.
Only one size
One tiny file can look blurry on phones and high-resolution screens. Provide larger versions too.
Forgetting dark mode
A dark icon on a transparent background can vanish in dark browser themes. Test it on light and dark backgrounds.
Where we work on this