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If you are a technology enthusiast who loves customizing Windows 10, you might have heard about the Windows Terminal. Microsoft introduced it as an open-source command-line tool to replace the default Command Prompt. Windows Terminal is a modern and customizable tool that allows users to run multiple command-line utilities in tabs and split panes. With Windows Terminal, you can easily customize the fonts, themes, and background images, amongst others.
However, some users may not know that the Windows Terminal is not the default terminal app when opening links with the “Open command window here” option. The good news is, it is possible to configure the Windows Terminal as the default terminal in Windows 10 so that it automatically opens when using the “Open command window here” option.
In this article, we’ll show you different methods to set Windows Terminal as the default terminal in Windows 10. We’ll also cover the potential issues you may face, and recommend some solutions to fix them.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we begin, you’ll need to ensure that you have the Windows Terminal app installed on your Windows 10 computer. You can download it from the Microsoft Store or through the official Windows Terminal GitHub repository. Additionally, you may need administrative privileges to modify the Windows Registry and access some of the commands.
What Requires Your Focus?
To set Windows Terminal as the default terminal app, you will need to pay attention to the following:
– Understanding the risks involved in modifying the Windows Registry
– Knowing the different methods available to change the default terminal
– Following the steps carefully to avoid making mistakes that could damage your system
Different Methods to Set Windows Terminal as Default Terminal
Here are some methods you can use to set Windows Terminal as the default terminal app on your Windows 10 PC.
Method 1: Using Open with Command Prompt
This is the easiest method to set Windows Terminal as the default terminal in Windows 10. Here’s how:
1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the directory where you want to open Command Prompt.
2. Hold down the Shift key and right-click on the folder or file.
3. Select “Open with” and then click “Windows Terminal”.
Pros:
– Easy and straightforward
– No need to access the Windows Registry
Cons:
– Not ideal for setting Windows Terminal as the default terminal globally
Method 2: Changing the Default Property in Shortcut
You can also set Windows Terminal as the default terminal by modifying the properties of the Command Prompt shortcut. Here’s how:
1. Locate the Command Prompt shortcut in your Start menu.
2. Right-click on the Command Prompt shortcut and select “Properties”.
3. In the “Target” field, change the path from “cmd.exe” to “wt.exe”.
4. Click “OK” to save the changes.
Pros:
– Allows you to set Windows Terminal as the default terminal globally
– Easy to change and revert if necessary
Cons:
– Any modifications here will only apply to the Command Prompt shortcut
Method 3: Accessing Windows Registry
For advanced users, you can set Windows Terminal as the default terminal app by accessing the Windows Registry. Here’s how:
1. Press “Windows Key + R” to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “regedit” in the field and click “OK”.
3. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Command Processor
4. Right-click and create a new string value named “Autorun”.
5. Set the value data to “%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps\wt.exe”.
6. Restart your computer.
Pros:
– Globally modifies the default terminal settings
– Allows for granular customization of default settings
Cons:
– Risk of damaging your registry if not done properly
– Advanced knowledge required
Why Can’t I Set Windows Terminal as Default Terminal?
Sometimes, users may encounter difficulties setting Windows Terminal as the default terminal app. Here are some potential reasons why and how to fix them:
1. The Windows Terminal app is not installed on your computer. Download and install it before proceeding.
2. Another terminal app is set as the default. Check your default apps settings in “Settings > Apps > Default apps > Choose default apps by file type” and change the default app to Windows Terminal.
3. Your Windows Registry settings may not be allowing for the changes. You can run the Registry Editor as an administrator and try again.
4. You may have a corrupted user profile. Create a new user profile and try to set Windows Terminal as the default terminal app there.
Implications and Recommendations
Setting Windows Terminal as the default terminal app on your Windows 10 computer can have several implications. For instance, it can help you increase efficiency and productivity when working with the command-line interface. However, if done improperly, making changes in the Windows Registry or command lines can damage your system or cause irreversible effects.
Therefore, we recommend that you only make these changes if deemed necessary. Additionally, we recommend backing up your Windows Registry before making any changes to avoid losing essential data.
5 FAQs About Setting Windows Terminal as Default Terminal
Q1: How do I open Windows Terminal as an administrator?
A: To open Windows Terminal as an administrator, click on the “Start” menu, type “Windows Terminal” in the search bar, right-click on the app icon and select “Run as administrator”.
Q2: Can I customize Windows Terminal’s appearance?
A: Yes, Windows Terminal is highly customizable. You can change the background image, font size and style, opacity, and more. Check out the official documentation for more information.
Q3: Can I change the default terminal app using PowerShell?
A: Yes, you can use PowerShell to change the default terminal app. Run PowerShell as an administrator and type the following command: “New-ItemProperty -Path HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Command Processor -Name Autorun -Value ‘%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps\wt.exe’ -Force”. This should set Windows Terminal as the default terminal app.
Q4: What is the difference between Windows Terminal and Command Prompt?
A: Windows Terminal is a modern command-line tool from Microsoft that allows users to run multiple command-line utilities in tabs and split panes. It also allows for deeper customization of the command-line interface. Command Prompt is the default command-line interface on Windows.
Q5: How do I revert the changes I made to the Windows Registry?
A: To revert the changes you made to the Windows Registry, open the Registry Editor, navigate to the registry key you created, right-click on it and select “Delete”. Alternatively, you can change the value data to “cmd.exe” to set Command Prompt as the default terminal app.
In Conclusion
Setting Windows Terminal as the default terminal app in Windows 10 can be easily achieved using different methods. Whether you choose to modify the Command Prompt shortcut or access the Windows Registry, be sure to have administrative privileges and follow the steps carefully to avoid causing damage to your system. Remember, customization and efficiency come with responsibility, so always be cautious when making changes to your computer’s settings.