On many Linux systems, like Ubuntu, the .vimrc file doesn't exist by default, so it is recommended that you create it first.

Don't use the .viminfo file that exist in the home directory. It is used for a different purpose.

Step 1: Go to your home directory:

 cd ~

Step 2: Create the file:

 vim .vimrc

Step 3: Add the configuration stated below:

 filetype plugin indent on
 set tabstop=4
 set shiftwidth=4
 set expandtab

Step 4: Save file and quit.