When your computer is running slow or a program becomes unresponsive, one of the best ways to troubleshoot the issue is by opening the Task Manager. This handy tool allows you to see which programs are currently running and how much system resources they are using.
Gain insights on software speed, hardware problems, and more. In the Control Panel, type Task Manager in the search bar at the top-right corner and a small link to Task Manager will open up on the left side under the System heading. Usually, issues with Windows Explorer can force you to execute commands via the Run command to access different components.
When you press the shortcut keys, you’ll see the Windows Security screen pop open on your screen. We will use the Windows Tools option to access Task Manager for this method. Windows Tools contains tools for system administrators and advanced users. However, some apps might prevent users from accessing Task Manager with the above method.
Using Keyboard Shortcuts
To quickly open the Task Manager, you can use a keyboard shortcut. Simply press Ctrl + Shift + Esc all at once. This will bring up the Task Manager window instantly, allowing you to view processes, performance, and more.
However, it’s probably a lot easier to just select Adjust for best performance at the top of the screen and then click OK. Windows 10 will then turn off the effects that slow down your system. It now scans your Registry for errors, then shows you what it found. Click Resolve when you’ve made your decision, and make sure that Back Up Changes is checked, so you can restore the Registry easily if something goes wrong. If you want to see details about what it’s done, click View detailed report at the bottom of the screen. When you uninstall a program, for example, that program’s settings don’t always get cleaned up in the Registry.
You can also open the Task Manager from the Power User menu on your Windows computer. Put briefly, the Power User menu is a central place to access some of the most widely used Windows features. So, next time, you don’t have to do the tedious work of following multiple steps or remembering hotkeys. Simply double-click on the Shortcut and open the Task Manager. Evaluate the performance and functionality of your CPU with the best CPU benchmark tools.
Through the Start Menu
It also only supports a light theme, whereas the new design of Task Manager can be used in light or dark mode. If you’re used to using dark mode like me, the older Task Manager will stand out. The Windows Task Manager provides info and tools relating to your PC’s performance, including memory handling, CPU usage, and network stats. You can also use the tool to manage processes, perform maintenance, and implement quick fixes for problem apps. If you prefer keyboard shortcuts, pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc will quickly bring up the Task Manager. If the operating system appears stuck, you can still get to it by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete (which opens Windows 11’s Security Screen) and then selecting Task Manager.
You can customize how Storage Sense works and also use it to free up even more space than it normally would. Underneath Storage Sense, click Configure Storage Sense or run it now. From the screen that appears, you can change how often Storage Sense deletes files (every day, every week, every month or when your storage space gets low).
Although I must confess to accessing it via the power user menu sometimes when I am too lazy to reach for the keyboard. I am sure you’ll find other methods useful as well in certain situations, or at least to flex on friends. Task Manager is one of the most commonly used programs on Windows, regardless of its version. It is a tool that displays currently running programs and resource utilization such as CPU, RAM, graphics card, hard disk, and processes on a Windows OS.
If you prefer using the mouse, you can also access the Task Manager through the Start Menu. Simply right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen and select “Task Manager” from the list that appears. This will open the Task Manager window for easy access to system information.
Now that you know how to open the Task Manager, you can easily monitor and manage your system’s processes to keep your computer running smoothly. Whether you’re troubleshooting issues or simply want to check on your system’s performance, the Task Manager is a valuable tool for any Windows user.
