Microsoft Releases Fixit for Random Incorrect Icon Change Problem in Windows XP, Vista and 7

Microsoft has confirmed an issue in Windows XP, Vista and 7 which causes random incorrect icon change problem due to icon cache not updating correctly.

Problem Symptom:

Some icons in the following locations are randomly changed to other icons on a computer that is running Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7:

• My Computer
• Windows Explorer
• Desktop
• Quick Launch bar

Problem Cause:

This issue occurs because the icon cache is not updated correctly.

Solution:

To fix this problem, follow these steps:
1. Close all open windows if a Close Open Programs Interaction dialog box is displayed.
2. Verify the Max Cached Icons string value that locates in the following registry subkey equals to 2000:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer

3. Delete IconCache.db that locates in the following path:

Windows XP
%userprofile%\Local Settings\Application Data
Windows Vista or Windows 7
%userprofile%\AppData\Local

PS: You can download the "Diagnose and repair Windows File and Folder Problems automatically" troubleshooter to automatically fix the problem. To run this troubleshooter, click the Run now button at following link:
Download Fix

Posted in: troubleshooting