Where Does iTerm2 Store Preferences and Profiles?
iTerm2 keeps profiles in a plist file plus support folders. The exact macOS paths and how the custom sync folder changes things.
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iTerm2 stores profiles and preferences in ~/Library/Preferences/com.googlecode.iterm2.plist. That one file holds almost everything you set in Settings, including profiles, key maps, and color presets. It is a standard macOS plist, so the defaults command can read and delete it.
Two other folders matter. ~/Library/Application Support/iTerm2 holds toolbelt data and dynamic profiles. ~/.iterm2 holds shell integration scripts. If you turned on the custom folder sync under Settings, then General, then Preferences, the live settings live in that folder instead.
Where iTerm2 stores this, by platform
~/Library/Preferences/com.googlecode.iterm2.plist
Quit iTerm2 before editing this file by hand. Use defaults delete com.googlecode.iterm2 to reset everything. Dynamic profiles, toolbelt notes, and shell integration live in ~/Library/Application Support/iTerm2 and ~/.iterm2, not here.
Frequently asked questions
how do i sync iterm2 settings between macs
Open iTerm2, go to Settings, then General, then Preferences. Turn on Load preferences from a custom folder or URL and pick a folder. That folder then holds the live copy of your settings.
is copying the plist enough to back up iterm2
Yes, with a catch. The plist holds most preferences and profiles. Toolbelt data, dynamic profiles, and shell integration scripts live in Application Support and ~/.iterm2. Copy all three spots for a full move.
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