Setting Command Prompt, PowerShell, or WSL as the Default Terminal Application in Windows Terminal

Key Notes

  • Easily set Windows Terminal as the default for Command Prompt and PowerShell.
  • Use JSON settings for advanced configuration options.
  • Access legacy settings through the Console Host if needed.

Mastering Windows Terminal: Your Guide to Setting It as the Default Command Line Application

In a world where efficient command-line tools boost productivity, configuring Windows Terminal as your default command-line application is essential. This guide will provide you with straightforward methods to achieve this, ensuring you can work seamlessly with PowerShell, Command Prompt, and WSL directly in the enhanced Windows Terminal interface.

Establish Windows Terminal as Default via Terminal

To set Windows Terminal as your default for opening Command Prompt, PowerShell, or WSL, follow these meticulous steps:

  1. Launch the Start menu on Windows 11 or 10.

  2. Type Windows Terminal and press Enter to open the app.

  3. Click on the menu (down-arrow) icon and select Settings.

  4. Navigate to the Startup tab.

  5. Find the “Default terminal application” setting and select Windows Terminal.

  6. (Optional) Under “Default profile, ” choose Command Prompt if desired.

  7. Press the Save button to apply your changes.

Once completed, anytime you launch Command Prompt or PowerShell, they will open in Windows Terminal instead of the legacy Windows Console Host.

Set Terminal Default Console on Windows 11 via Settings

Follow these steps to configure Windows Terminal as the system default on Windows 11:

  1. Access Settings by pressing Windows key + I.

  2. Click on System.

  3. Select For Developers.

  4. Choose Windows Terminal from the “Terminal” settings.

    Quick note: Opt for the preview version of the terminal for additional features, or revert the default to the Windows Console if necessary.

After completing these steps, all command-line applications will automatically use Windows Terminal.

Set Terminal Default Console on Windows 10 via Settings

To set Windows Terminal as the default experience on Windows 10, perform the following:

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.

  2. Click on Update & Security.

  3. Select For Developers.

  4. Choose Windows Terminal from the “Terminal” option.

Now, Windows 10 will utilize Windows Terminal as the default command-line console.

Configure Default Console via JSON file

To establish the desired console application via JSON settings, follow these clear steps:

  1. Access the Start menu on Windows 11 or 10.

  2. Type Windows Terminal and open it.

  3. Click the down-arrow button and select Settings.

  4. Locate and click on the “Open JSON file” option in the bottom-left corner.

  5. In the JSON file, find the “guid” for the profile you want to set as default and copy it.

  6. Replace the current “guid” under the “defaultProfile” field at the top of the JSON.

  7. Click on the File menu and select Save.

Restart the Windows Terminal, and your chosen console will now open by default.

Set Terminal Default Console via Console Host

Alternatively, you can enable the Windows Terminal feature within the Windows Console Host by following these steps:

  1. Open the Start menu.

  2. Search for Command Prompt or PowerShell and launch it.

  3. Right-click the title bar and select Defaults.

  4. Select the Terminal tab.

  5. Choose Windows Terminal in the “Default Terminal Application” section.

  6. Click OK to save your settings.

Now, your command-line applications will automatically open using Windows Terminal.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure your Windows Terminal is updated for the best performance.
  • Regularly back up your configuration settings in JSON format for easy restoration.
  • Explore customization options to enhance your command-line interface experience.

Summary

This comprehensive guide details the process of setting Windows Terminal as the default command-line application, enhancing productivity by utilizing a feature-rich terminal experience across PowerShell, Command Prompt, and WSL.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can seamlessly set Windows Terminal as your go-to command-line application. Enjoy the improved functionalities and customization it offers, maximizing your efficiency in command-line tasks.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I switch back to the Legacy Console?

Yes, you can revert to the legacy console anytime through the settings or the Console Host’s properties.

Is Windows Terminal available on Windows 10?

Yes, Windows Terminal is available for Windows 10 and can be installed via the Microsoft Store.