Make the "favicon.ico" file.
First make a bitmap file (.bmp) that is 16x16 pixels, and 16 colors
(4-bit). Then this file have to be converted to an .ico file. If you use
Windows, you can download the free IrfanView
picture editor that can save to this format, or the use the free converter
GoldIcon
to convert an already made .bmp file to .ico file.
There are also lots of other utilities you can use for this job.
Modify the apache config.
Now, upload this file to the root directory of your website. For some
reason the execute bit has to be set on this file for apache to use it. If
you have shell access, type: "chmod
+rx favicon.ico".
Then edit "/etc/httpd/conf/httpd.conf"
and inserted the following line:
"AddType image/x-icon .ico"
I did it along with some other "AddType" lines in there. Then
restart your apacheserver, and voila!
If you don't have your own domain.
Even if you don't have your own domain, you can still use a favicons on your site. But, you'll need to add the following code in between the HEAD Tags on each of your Webpages (on one line):
"<LINK REL="SHORTCUT ICON"
HREF="http://www.geocities.com/mysite/favicon.ico">"
Where:
"http://www.geocities.com/mysite/" is your URL Web address, and
"favicon.ico" your icon file.
Tips & problems.
Test your favicon file. In some cases your favicon may not appear when you test it. If you have this problem, following these steps:
- Delete all current favorites to your Website.
- Clear your History and Cache files.
- Clear your Recycle Bin.
- Restart (reboot) your PC.
- Bookmark your site. Your Favicon should appear.
Favicon file problems:
- They are not permanent and are stored in your temporary Internet files folder.
- If your Temporary Internet Files folder is deleled, your favicons will be lost.
- Internet Explorer 5 sometimes fails to download the favicon automatically.
- Some Web hosting services may not support .ico files. If you're in doubt, ask your hosting service.
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