3 Ways to Launch Windows Terminal on Windows 11

Method 1: Launch Windows Terminal Using the Run Dialog

The Run dialog lets you execute any program or command within the same network on your computer. You can use it to open Windows Terminal on your Windows 11 PC.

Press the Windows + R shortcut to open Run > type wt.exe > press Enter to open the Windows Terminal. To open it with administrator privileges, press the Ctrl + Shift + Enter keys instead and approve the UAC prompt.

Method 2: Use the Task Manager App

Besides monitoring and managing system resources, you can use the Task Manager app to open the Windows Terminal.

Step 1: Press the Ctrl + Shift + Esc shortcut to open the Task Manager app > select the Processes tab > click on Run new task.

Step 2: Type wt.exe in the text field and press Enter. To run it as an administrator, check the box for Create this task with administrative privileges and hit Enter.

Method 3: Create a Shortcut to Open the Windows Terminal

If you frequently use Windows Terminal, I recommend creating its shortcut on your desktop and assigning a hotkey.

Step 1: Right-click anywhere on your desktop and select New > Shortcut.

Step 2: Copy-paste the following path in the text field and click Next.

%LocalAppData%\Microsoft\WindowsApps\wt.exe

Step 3: Name the shortcut as Windows Terminal and click Finish.

Step 4: Right-click the created shortcut and select Properties.

Step 5: Open the Shortcut tab > select the Shortcut key > press your desired key combination (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + T) to assign it. Click on Apply to save changes.