How do I get Classic Folder Icons Back?

Anonymous
2010-03-20T15:16:47+00:00

How can I get back the folder icons from windows xp?  I need my folder icons to be flat square folders, which I can customize with one photo from inside the folder shown on the front?  These open folders sitting sideways with documents and pictures falling out, are driving me crazy.  I work with thousands of photos every day and need a quick simple way to identify what is inside each folder.  Now I have to spend hours opening each folder and looking through the photos...such a waste of time.  Why is such a simple folder icon gone in Windows 7?  I need it back!

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Files, folders, and storage

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@CmdrKeene 90,631 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
2010-03-24T21:23:27+00:00

Try making the icons larger to accommodate the picture.  For example:

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Anonymous
2010-03-23T15:47:24+00:00

Periwinkleblue,

Hello, I’m afraid that changing the file displayed/icon would be the closest choices for customizing the folder in the way you would like, short of possible third party tweaks.

If this is a feature you would like reinstated, please leave your suggestion at Windows 7 Feedback.

Lisa

Microsoft Answers Support Engineer

Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.

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  1. Anonymous
    2011-02-24T09:05:02+00:00

    C.C

    It is gone.  I have searched far and wide on this.  The knowledgeable concur that the basic folder that worked so well was not only removed...but was also NOT included in the 300 alternative icons which we COULD choose.   That's of course the part that boggles; why remove it from the options while including 300 alternatives we mostly don't want?  But they did...it's absolutely not available any more, so stop struggling about it.  It would be easier, though, if they would stop patronizing those who seek its return.

    Many fail utterly to comprehend what has been lost to their narrowness of vision and flail about in bewildered hostility...adding insult to our injury.

    Sigh.

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  2. Anonymous
    2011-02-24T08:39:58+00:00

    More accurately phrased: I just can't understand why so many people are unwilling to accept deterioration and degradation.

    For myself, I can't understand why so many people, like yourself, are WILLING to accept deterioration, while patronizing those who recognize the loss.

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  3. Anonymous
    2011-01-12T17:45:43+00:00

    Can I too please stress the importance of getting back the option of placing a flat image on a folder icon to identify the contents of a folder.

    I have over 900 folders of images - indexed in date order over 10 years with anything from 1 to 1500 images inside each folder. I am a Tour Operator and use images for lectures, presentations and brochures etc

    With so many folders an external image quicly identifies the contents of the file from other similar ones surrounding it but with the windows 7 layout it is just like staring at a maze of half opened books with no indications or assistance at the contents for facilitating access. The image is a much easier locating tool than text.

    The example above with a larger icon is an absolute non runner as anyone handling a large number of folders will testify - one needs to scan 50 or 60 at atime - which is not possible with the icons above,

    I too am now searching for new computers running Windows XP as the Windows 7 option is sonon  user friendly it is unbelivable. Only those who have to manage large numbers of photos folders will understand the aggravation and unecessary waste of time that results - surely Microsoft can develop a quick patch which will allow Windows 7 to support a flat image on the outside of folders - PLEASE!

    I found this thread by searchung the web to see if anyone else had this problem and if there was a fix and sadly the answer is clearly YES and NO !

    It is pretty disapointing with atechnical upgrade sends us backwards - it would be pretty difficult to design an icon less friendly on the eye than what Windows 7 delivers!

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