For over a decade, the author has embraced the world of Linux, particularly through the use of Ubuntu Server for cloud deployments, managing game servers, and media streaming. Their home servers continue to run on various Linux distributions, while a MacBook serves as the primary tool for daily tasks. However, the need to utilize Windows for gaming on a main PC remains, albeit with the assistance of Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). The author has configured Windows Terminal to suit their preferences, making it an indispensable part of their workflow.
Windows Terminal, an open-source alternative to the traditional Windows Console, offers a unified interface for multiple command-line shells. This feature allows users to run Windows PowerShell, Command Prompt, and WSL concurrently, all within a single application. The author finds themselves spending a significant amount of time in Windows Terminal, effortlessly managing multiple servers through its tabbed interface. The convenience of having everything in one place eliminates the need for separate applications or multiple instances of PowerShell.
For those using Windows 11 version 22H2 or later, Windows Terminal comes pre-installed and set as the default command-line experience. Users with earlier versions can easily download it from the Microsoft Store, while Windows 10 users on build version 1903 and later can also access it through the same platform.
My Windows Terminal Configuration
The author’s Windows Terminal setup is straightforward yet effective, designed to consolidate various services into a single interface. The default tab is configured to open a WSL environment, reflecting the author’s familiarity with Linux. Additional options include:
- Command Prompt
- PowerShell
- PowerShell (Admin)
- Developer Command Prompt for Visual Studio 2022
- Developer PowerShell for Visual Studio 2022
Launching PowerShell in admin mode opens a new Terminal instance with administrative privileges, allowing for the execution of commands that require elevated access. The author has also customized their experience by removing trailing whitespace when pasting, ensuring that only plain text is pasted, and organizing the tab strip order to suit their aesthetic preferences. The title bar is hidden, and new tabs are created sequentially after the last tab.
Visually, the author prefers a Dark theme paired with the Monokai Remastered color scheme, using the JetBrains Mono font at a size of 14. This font, which is not included by default, is installed externally from JetBrains. The beauty of Windows Terminal lies in its flexibility; users can modify settings without fear of disrupting functionality. The critical aspect for the author is the WSL configuration, which is set to:
C:WINDOWSsystem32wsl.exe -d Ubuntu-22.04
This command allows immediate access to an Ubuntu terminal, and users can create additional profiles for other command-line executables. For instance, tools like fzf or Glance can be set up as runnable profiles for quick access.
What Can You Do with Windows Terminal?
The versatility of Windows Terminal is one of its standout features. The author can launch the application, access a Ubuntu terminal, and swiftly connect to Proxmox hosts or virtual machines via SSH. The ability to open multiple tabs facilitates simultaneous control of different systems, enhancing productivity. Additionally, the option to configure startup actions allows specific tabs to open automatically upon launching the Terminal, streamlining the workflow further.
Another intriguing feature is the “Quake” mode, activated by pressing Win + `. This function opens a window that occupies the top half of the screen with the default profile, ideal for executing quick commands or checking information. Users can resize this window as needed, and it remains visible even when switching to other applications. The potential for creating automated tools within the Terminal is vast; for example, users can bind specific commands to keyboard shortcuts, such as updating applications using WinGet, Scoop, or Chocolatey.
Looking ahead, the author plans to explore the addition of SSH profiles, simplifying the process of connecting to external servers. With numerous options available, the Windows Terminal has become an essential component of the author’s daily operations, and they eagerly anticipate discovering even more capabilities. For those who have yet to embrace this tool, it offers the potential for automation and efficiency that can transform the command-line experience, regardless of one’s familiarity with it.
