How to Change Windows Terminal Launch Mode in Windows 11
You change the Windows Terminal launch mode to decide if it opens maximized or as a standard window in Windows 11.
The launch mode dictates whether the Terminal app fills your entire screen upon opening or appears as a regular, resizable window.
Setting Windows Terminal to launch maximized is particularly useful for tasks requiring your undivided focus, like extensive coding sessions or complex command-line operations.
This simple adjustment helps personalize your workspace, minimizing distractions and ensuring the Terminal opens precisely as you prefer for your workflow.
Open Windows Terminal settings, navigate to the Startup section, and select your desired Launch mode from the dropdown menu. Options include Default, Maximized, Full screen, Focus, and Maximized focus. Save your changes to apply the new launch behavior.
What happens when done?
Changing your Windows Terminal launch mode means it will always open just the way you like it, whether that’s a specific size or a special view.
How to change the Windows Terminal launch mode
Changing the Windows Terminal launch mode is simple and can be done right from the app’s settings menu.
- Open the Terminal app by clicking the Start button, typing “Terminal,” and selecting the app from the list.
- Once the app is open, click the down arrow at the top of the window. Select Settings from the menu. You can also press Ctrl + , (the comma key) on your keyboard to open this screen.
- Look for the Startup section. Find the Launch mode setting and choose your favorite option from the list:
- Default: Opens in the standard window size.
- Maximized: Opens as a full-size window.
- Full screen: Opens covering your entire screen.
- Focus: Opens in a normal window but hides the tabs and title bar.
- Maximized focus: Opens as a full-size window with the tabs and title bar hidden.
- Click the Save button to apply your changes.
Understanding JSON Configuration
Windows Terminal uses a special file called settings.json to store all your choices, like how it starts up.
Launch Position, Size, and Behavior
Beyond just the launch mode, you can also tell Windows Terminal exactly where to appear on your screen and how big it should be.
Summary
Making your Windows Terminal launch mode just right helps you get work done faster by setting up your workspace perfectly every time.
How do I reset Windows Terminal settings to default?
To reset, open the Settings menu, click on the Defaults tab, and look for the option to restore settings. Alternatively, you can delete the settings.json file located in 📂%LOCALAPPDATA%\Packages\Microsoft.WindowsTerminal_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalState. The app will recreate a fresh default file upon the next launch.
Can I set different launch modes for different profiles?
Yes, you can customize individual profiles within the settings.json file. By defining specific properties under the profiles section, you can ensure that a specific profile, such as a development environment, always launches in a maximized state while others remain in the default window mode.
What is the difference between ‘maximized’ and ‘fullscreen’ launch modes?
Maximized mode opens the window to fill your desktop area while keeping the taskbar and window borders visible. Fullscreen mode removes all window decorations, including the title bar and taskbar, allowing the terminal to occupy every single pixel of your display for a completely immersive experience.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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