Are Windows 7 icons protected by copyright?

[TheThemEm]

I like Windows 7 icons and I want to use it in my software and my website

I want to know if these icons are protected by copyright or it's public domain

 

[LMiller7]

I think you can assume that virtually all icons you find in Windows will be protected by copyright.

 

[bigmck]

I just did a quick Google and found these Icons. There are many more out there.
Windows Icons - Download 301 Free Windows icons here

 

[Layback Bear]

One can find anything on the net.

My thoughts are, anything that is included in a Window operating system is covered under copyright laws of the operating system.

Just because one can find a counterfeit Windows 7 on the net doesn't mean Windows 7 is not covered by copyright laws.