Windows Terminal has emerged as the unified shell for a variety of command-line tools, encompassing PowerShell, Command Prompt, and the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). However, upon initial installation, it may not cater to every user’s specific preferences. For those who frequently set up Windows 11 on new or existing machines, a tailored configuration can significantly enhance the user experience. These adjustments transcend mere visual appeal; they foster improved readability, streamline transitions between different shells, and ensure consistent behavior across devices. By implementing these settings, Windows Terminal transforms from a basic application into a highly personalized tool that aligns with individual workflows.
Backup Terminal settings
To facilitate a seamless experience across multiple devices, backing up your Windows Terminal settings is essential. Here’s how you can export your configurations:
- Open Start.
- Search for Windows Terminal and select the top result to launch the application.
- Access the main menu and choose the Settings option (Ctrl+,).
- Click on Open JSON file.
- Navigate to the File menu and select Save As.
- Choose a location to save the file.
- Rename the file to backup-settings.json.
- Finally, click the Save button.
Upon completing these steps, your customized settings will be exported to a JSON file, ready for restoration on the same device or another computer.
Restore Terminal settings
To import your Terminal settings back into Windows Terminal, follow these steps:
- Locate the backup file.
- Right-click on backup-settings.json and select Edit in Notepad.
- Highlight all content using Ctrl + A and copy it with Ctrl + C.
- Open Start.
- Search for Windows Terminal and open the application.
- Access the main menu and select Settings (Ctrl+,).
- Click on Open JSON file.
- Clear the existing content by selecting everything with Ctrl + A and pressing Delete.
- Paste your previous configuration using Ctrl + V.
- Save the changes by using Ctrl + S.
Once these steps are completed, your custom settings will be applied immediately, replacing any previous configurations.
FAQs about customizing Windows Terminal
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the customization of Windows Terminal settings on Windows 11:
Can I set a different default shell other than Command Prompt in Windows Terminal?
Yes, Windows Terminal allows users to select a different default shell, providing flexibility to tailor the environment to their preferences.
