The Libdexter configuration file controls the run-time behavior of Libdexter-based applications. It determines which plugins are loaded; which services are authorized; the use and limits of the threading system; the behavior of Libdexter channels and servers, and other important items.

The Libdexter api dexter_init() is used to load the desired configuration file. If none is specified, Libdexter will attempt to use $HOME/.dexterrc and, if not found: /etc/libdexter/dexter.conf.

Many different Libdexter-based applications may be run simultaneously, each with a different configuration file, if necessary.