Windows

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

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 14, 2021 Updated Apr 14, 2026 1 min read

Do you prefer using the classic Command Prompt over PowerShell in Windows 11? By default, the Windows Terminal app opens with PowerShell. This guide shows you how to change that setting so your favorite tool loads every time you open the app.

Why change your default terminal?

Windows Terminal is a powerful tool that brings different command-line apps into one window. If you use the classic Command Prompt for your daily tasks, changing the default saves you the extra clicks of switching tabs every time you launch the app.

What happens when you are done?

Once you finish these steps, Windows Terminal will automatically start with your preferred Command Prompt environment. This makes your workflow faster and more convenient.

Steps to change your default terminal

1. Open the Windows Terminal app. You can do this by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Windows Terminal, or by searching for it in the Start menu. Windows Terminal interface running the classic Command Prompt on Windows 11

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

3. Select Settings from the drop-down menu that appears. Accessing the Windows Terminal settings menu via the dropdown arrow

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. Changing the default profile to Command Prompt in Windows Terminal settings

After you save, close the Windows Terminal app and open it again. It will now launch directly into the Command Prompt.

Summary

Customizing your Windows Terminal ensures that your most-used tools are ready the moment you open the app. By adjusting the Default profile in the settings menu, you can switch from PowerShell to Command Prompt in just a few clicks. This simple change helps streamline your daily tasks and makes using the command line much more efficient.

Was this guide helpful?

Tags: #Windows 11
Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, the owner and lead writer at Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast passionate about simplifying complex IT topics. His years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations have honed his ability to provide practical insights 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.

2457 articles → Twitter

📚 Related Tutorials

How to Open Windows Terminal at Startup in Windows 11
Windows How to Open Windows Terminal at Startup in Windows 11
How to Open Windows Terminal as Admin Automatically
Windows How to Open Windows Terminal as Admin Automatically
How to Set Default Profile in Windows Terminal
Windows How to Set Default Profile in Windows Terminal
How to Change Windows Terminal Themes
Windows How to Change Windows Terminal Themes

52 responses to “How to Set Windows Terminal to Open with Command Prompt on Windows 11”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Exit mobile version