This version of GitHub Enterprise Server was discontinued on 2024-07-09. No patch releases will be made, even for critical security issues. For better performance, improved security, and new features, upgrade to the latest version of GitHub Enterprise Server. For help with the upgrade, contact GitHub Enterprise support.

Configuring basic settings in GitHub Desktop

You can access settings for protecting your privacy, connecting accounts to GitHub Desktop, and configuring Git.

Platform navigation

  1. In the menu bar, select GitHub Desktop, then click Preferences.

    Screenshot of the menu bar on a Mac. Under the open "GitHub Desktop" dropdown menu, the cursor hovers over "Preferences", which is highlighted in blue.

  2. To view or change your settings, toggle between the panes in the "Preferences" window.

    Screenshot of the "Preferences" window. The left sidebar, with menu options such as "Accounts" and "Integrations", is highlighted with an orange outline.

    You can choose from the following options.

    • Choose Accounts to add or remove a GitHub or GitHub Enterprise account.
    • Choose Integrations to pick an external editor or shell.
    • Choose Git to edit your Git configuration.
    • Choose Appearance to switch between the light or dark theme.
    • Choose Prompts to enable or disable confirmation dialogs before performing destructive actions.
    • Choose Advanced for more configuration options.
    • Choose Accessibility to configure accessibility options.

  1. Use the File menu, then click Options.

    Screenshot of the "GitHub Desktop" menu bar on Windows. In the expanded "File" dropdown menu, the "Options" item is highlighted with an orange outline.

  2. To view or change your settings, toggle between the panes in the "Options" window.

    Screenshot of the "Options" window. The left sidebar, with menu options such as "Accounts" and "Integrations", is highlighted with an orange outline.

    You can choose from the following options.

    • Choose Accounts to add or remove a GitHub or GitHub Enterprise account.
    • Choose Integrations to pick an external editor or shell.
    • Choose Git to edit your Git configuration.
    • Choose Appearance to switch between the light or dark theme.
    • Choose Prompts to enable or disable confirmation dialogs before performing destructive actions.
    • Choose Advanced for more configuration options.
    • Choose Accessibility to configure accessibility options.

Further reading