> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.devolutions.net/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.devolutions.net/rdm/knowledge-base/knowledge-base-articles/distribution-and-use-of-the-default.cfg-file.md).

# Distribution and use of the default.cfg file

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to use and distribute the `default.cfg` file in Remote Desktop Manager. The `default.cfg` file allows administrators to define default settings that can be applied automatically across user environments.

### Export the default.cfg file

1. Open Remote Desktop Manager.
2. Go to ***File*** – ***Settings*** – ***Export settings***.
3. Choose the workspaces and export settings to include.

   <div data-gb-custom-block data-tag="hint" data-style="info" class="hint hint-info"><p>Please refer to <a href="https://docs.devolutions.net/rdm/commands/file/options/export/">Export settings</a> for further details.</p></div>
4. Save the file as `default.cfg`.
5. Move the `default.cfg` file into the default installation folder of Remote Desktop Manager (`C:\Program Files\Devolutions\Remote Desktop Manager`). This applies whether Remote Desktop Manager is installed or runs in portable mode.

### Distribute the default.cfg file

Administrators can distribute the `default.cfg` file using any method that fits their environment. For example, within Intune, you can deploy the file to `C:\Program Files\Devolutions\Remote Desktop Manager`.

### New users

When a user opens the application for the first time and no configuration exists, Remote Desktop Manager detects the `default.cfg`. If found, it uses the file as the template to create the user's configuration file.

### Existing users

* A group policy can automatically enforce new configurations. See [Apply policies](https://docs.devolutions.net/rdm/kb/how-to-articles/group-policies/) to find out how to deploy the ***Force loading of the default.cfg file*** policy.
* If a user does not already have a configuration file, Remote Desktop Manager will automatically apply the default settings from `default.cfg`.
* If `default.cfg` changes from a previously used version, Remote Desktop Manager prompts the user and guides them through the decision flow.
* When Remote Desktop Manager starts and detects a new `default.cfg`, the following dialog appears:

![](https://cdnweb.devolutions.net/docs/RDMW6051_2025_3.png)

* ***Use new configuration (lose mine)***: Replaces your current configuration with the new `default.cfg` file.

  <div data-gb-custom-block data-tag="hint" data-style="warning" class="hint hint-warning"><p>If <em><strong>Use new configuration (lose mine)</strong></em> is selected either by the user or enforced by the application, be aware that most existing settings will be overwritten. Selective or granular merging of configurations is not supported.</p></div>
* ***Keep my configuration***: Keeps your existing settings and ignores the new `default.cfg` file.


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