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How to Set Windows Terminal to Open with Command Prompt on Windows 11

Written by

Richard

Sep 14, 2021 Updated Jul 14, 2026 3 min read

How to Set Windows Terminal to Open with Command Prompt on Windows 11

Setting Windows Terminal to open with Command Prompt on Windows 11 lets you start your command-line work in the familiar environment you prefer.

Windows Terminal is a modern app that brings together Command Prompt, PowerShell, and other command-line tools in one place. By default, it usually opens to PowerShell when you start it.

However, many people find it easier to jump straight into Command Prompt, especially if they’re used to it from older Windows versions. This small change saves you the extra click to switch shells every time you open the app.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Windows Terminal, click the dropdown arrow next to the plus icon, select Settings, and change the Default profile from Windows PowerShell to Command Prompt. Click Save to apply.

What happens when you are done?

Once complete, Windows Terminal will automatically start with your preferred Command Prompt environment, making your workflow faster and more convenient.

Installation and Environment Setup

If you don’t have Windows Terminal yet, grab it from the Microsoft Store or use the Windows Package Manager. Open your terminal and run the command: winget install --id Microsoft.WindowsTerminal. This ensures you have the latest version for your command-line interface needs.

How to Set Windows Terminal to Open with Command Prompt

You can set Windows Terminal to open with Command Prompt every time you start it, instead of the usual PowerShell. This guide shows you how to change that setting in a few steps so your preferred command-line tool is ready to go.

2. Once the app is open, click the downward-facing arrow located next to the ( + ) icon in the top bar.

Searching for Windows Terminal in the Windows 11 Start menu — windows terminal search and open

3. Select Settings from the drop-down menu that appears.

Accessing the Windows Terminal settings menu via the dropdown arrow — windows terminal settings

4. Look for the Default profile option. Click the box and change the selection from Windows PowerShell to Command Prompt.

5. Click the Save button located at the bottom right corner of the window to apply your changes.

windows 11 windows terminal change to command prompt

Advanced Configuration with settings.json

For more control over Windows Terminal, you can directly edit its settings.json file. Hold the Alt key while clicking the Settings menu. This opens the settings.json file in your default text editor, allowing you to customize profiles, colors, and key bindings.

Using the wt Command

You can launch the terminal using the wt command. Press ⊞ Win+R and type wt to open it. You can also use command-line arguments to open specific folders. For example, use wt -d C:\Users\GenericUser\Documents to start in a specific directory.

Summary

Switching Windows Terminal to open Command Prompt is a quick setting change that ensures your favorite command-line tool is ready instantly. You can do this through the settings menu or by editing the settings.json file for more advanced customization.

Can I open Command Prompt as Administrator by default in Windows Terminal?

Yes. In the Settings menu, select your Command Prompt profile. Toggle the switch labeled Run this profile as Administrator to the on position. Note that this requires admin privileges to execute successfully. Once saved, every new tab for this profile will launch with elevated permissions automatically.

What is the difference between Windows Console Host and Windows Terminal?

Windows Console Host (conhost.exe) is the older system that handled command-line apps. Windows Terminal is a modern, tabbed application that supports GPU acceleration, custom themes, and Unicode characters. It provides a much better user experience and is the recommended interface for all modern Windows command-line tasks.

How do I reset Windows Terminal settings to default?

To reset, navigate to the Settings menu. Click on Open JSON file while holding the Alt key. You can delete the configuration file or simply uninstall and reinstall the app via the Microsoft Store. This will clear your custom profiles and restore the original factory settings.

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Tags: #Windows 11

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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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