How to Set Default Profile in Windows Terminal

Windows Terminal is a powerful tool for developers and power users. It lets you run Command Prompt, PowerShell, and Linux shells in one window. By default, Windows sets PowerShell as your starting point. You can easily change this to match your daily workflow.

Why change your default profile?

You might prefer Command Prompt or a specific Linux distribution for your tasks. Setting a custom default profile saves you time. It ensures your favorite environment opens every time you launch the app.

What happens when you are done?

Once you save your settings, every new tab or window will start with your selected profile. This does not change your existing tabs. It only affects new sessions you create.

Method 1: Using the Settings UI

This is the easiest way to change your startup settings without touching code.

1. Open Windows Terminal from your Start menu.

2. 

3. Click the down arrow in the top tab bar.
4. Select Settings or press Ctrl + , on your keyboard.

5. 

6. In the left sidebar, click Startup.
7. Find the Default profile dropdown menu.

8. 

9. Select your preferred shell from the list.
10. Click Save at the bottom right.

Note: These steps do not require admin privileges.

Method 2: Using the settings.json File

For advanced users, you can edit the configuration file directly. This allows for deeper customization.

Warning: Always back up your settings.json file before making changes. You can find it at %LOCALAPPDATA%\Packages\Microsoft.WindowsTerminal_8wekyb3d8bbwe\LocalState\settings.json.

1. Open Settings in Windows Terminal.
2. Click Open JSON file at the bottom left.
3. Look for the defaultProfile line.
4. Replace the existing GUID with the GUID of your desired profile.

"defaultProfile": "{00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000}"

You can find the GUID for each profile listed under the profiles section in the same file.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your changes do not apply, ensure you have saved the file correctly. If you made a mistake in the JSON syntax, Windows Terminal will revert to a default state. Check for missing commas or brackets. If you want to revert to the original settings, simply delete the settings.json file and restart the app to reset it to factory defaults.

Summary

Customizing your Windows Terminal startup settings improves your productivity. Whether you use the simple Settings UI or the advanced settings.json file, you can control exactly how your terminal environment behaves. For more advanced configuration, visit the official Microsoft Learn documentation.