How to Set Default Profile in Windows Terminal

This guide explains how to choose your favorite command-line tool as the default when you open Windows Terminal in Windows 11.

Windows Terminal is a modern app for running command-line tools like Command Prompt, Windows PowerShell, and bash using Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). It supports multiple tabs, custom themes, and faster text rendering.

Why change your default profile?

You might prefer using Command Prompt or Azure Cloud Shell over the standard PowerShell. Setting a default saves you time by opening your preferred tool automatically every time you start a new session.

What happens when you are done?

Once you save your settings, every new tab you open in Windows Terminal will automatically launch using your chosen tool instead of the default one.

How to change your default profile

By default, Windows PowerShell is the shell that opens first. You can change this by following these steps:

1. Open the Terminal app by searching for it in the Start menu.

2. Click the down arrow button on the top bar.
3. Select Settings from the menu, or press Ctrl + , (comma) on your keyboard.

3. In the Settings window, look for the Startup section.
4. Find the Default profile option and pick your preferred shell from the list.

4. Click Save to apply your changes.

You can also switch between profiles on the fly by clicking the down arrow in the menu bar and choosing a different shell.

Note: These steps do not require admin privileges.

Summary

Windows Terminal makes it easy to manage different command-line environments. By updating the Startup settings, you can ensure your preferred tool—whether it is Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Azure Cloud Shell—is always ready when you open the app.