How can I set PowerShell to start in my user folder?
Asked by
MellowPine47
Whenever I open PowerShell on Windows, it starts in `C:WindowsSystem32` instead of my user directory, such as `C:Usersmyname`. I know I can run `cd ~` manually, but I'd like PowerShell to open in the preferred directory automatically. What's the best way to configure this?
Answers
If you start PowerShell from a regular shortcut, open the shortcut’s properties and change the **Start in** directory to your desired path. That controls the working directory when the shortcut launches PowerShell.
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If you launch PowerShell through Windows Terminal, edit that PowerShell profile’s starting directory and set it to something like `C:Usersmyname`. This is usually the cleanest option because it changes the location for that particular terminal profile without affecting every PowerShell session.
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Also check whether PowerShell is being launched with elevated permissions. A normal user session commonly starts in the user directory, while an administrator session may start in `C:WindowsSystem32`. If you are already launching it normally, use the Windows Terminal or shortcut setting instead.
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You can also use your PowerShell profile. Run `notepad $PROFILE`, add `Set-Location 'C:Usersmyname'`, save the file, and open a new PowerShell window. However, this runs for every session that loads the profile, so it may override a directory you intentionally launched PowerShell from. `Push-Location 'C:Usersmyname'` is another option, since `Pop-Location` can return you to the previous directory.
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MellowPine47: That worked for me. I used `notepad $PROFILE`, added the location command, and new sessions now start in my user folder.
QuartzFalcon19: One caveat: some enterprise systems block PowerShell scripts, which can prevent profiles from loading. In that situation, changing the Windows Terminal profile or shortcut’s **Start in** setting is a better approach.