Adding a favicon to your WordPress site is a simple way to make your brand more recognisable and professional. A favicon is the small icon that appears next to your website’s name in a browser tab, bookmark, or mobile browser tab.
The thing is, by default, your site will most likely display the WordPress icon, which isn’t very well branded. While it might seem like a small detail, I think it’s worth updating. It’s the little things that can make a difference in how your business is perceived.
I always recommend adding a proper favicon – it’s simply good practice. When someone has multiple tabs open while comparing different companies, a custom favicon can help you stand out. It may even give the impression that your brand is more polished and professional.
What Is a Favicon?
A favicon (short for “favourite icon”) is a small square image, typically 16×16 or 32×32 pixels, associated with a website. It’s displayed in browser tabs, bookmarks, and shortcuts on mobile devices. It helps users identify your site quickly, even when multiple tabs are open.
Why You Need a Favicon
- Branding: Reinforces your brand identity.
- Trust: Makes your site look more polished and professional.
- Recognition: Helps returning visitors find your site faster.
How to Create a Favicon
You can create a favicon using any graphic design tool like Canva, Photoshop, or Figma. Just make sure to:
- Use a square canvas (at least 512×512 pixels is recommended).
- Keep the design simple and clear, even at small sizes.
- Export the image as a
.png,.jpg, or.icofile.
Uploading a Favicon via WordPress Customiser
This is the easiest and most common way to upload a favicon in WordPress and the one I use 99.9% of the time.
Step 1: Go to your WordPress dashboard.
Step 2: Navigate to Appearance > Customise.
Step 3: Click on Site Identity.
Step 4: Look for the option labelled Site Icon.
Step 5: Click Select site icon and upload your favicon image.
Step 6: Crop the image if needed and click Publish.
WordPress will now automatically display the favicon across all devices and browsers that support it.
Alternative Methods to Add a Favicon
If your theme doesn’t support the Customiser or you want more control, you can use these methods:
1. Theme Options Panel
Some WordPress themes have their own custom settings panel where you can upload a favicon directly.
2. Upload via FTP
- Upload your favicon file (usually named
favicon.ico) to your site’s root directory via FTP. - Add this code to your theme’s
<head>section insideheader.phpor via a plugin that allows custom headers:
<link rel="icon" href="/favicon.ico" type="image/x-icon">3. Use a Plugin
Plugins like “All in One Favicon” or “Favicon by RealFaviconGenerator” can help if you need extra options or support for all devices and formats.
Tips for the Best Favicon Results
- Use high contrast and minimal detail.
- Test it at small sizes — if it’s not legible at 16×16 pixels, simplify it.
- Stick with a transparent background unless your logo requires colour.
- Use a square shape to avoid distortion.
Adding a favicon is a small step that makes a big impact. It helps your WordPress site stand out and gives it a more finished, professional feel. It only takes a few minutes but improves branding and user experience across the board.
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