What role does a favicon serve in web design?

A favicon serves as a small, visual representation of a website in the browser's address bar, tabs, bookmarks, and other locations. Its primary role is to help users easily identify and differentiate between multiple open web pages and sites, particularly when they have many tabs open. This visual cue enhances user experience by making navigation more intuitive and recognizable, contributing to branding and overall aesthetic design.

The favicon supports brand recognition; a well-designed favicon can create a strong visual identity, making a website more memorable to visitors. This is particularly important in a digital landscape where users often juggle multiple sites at once. By using a favicon, web designers can reinforce their branding efforts and improve the usability of their site.