Windows task manager is probably one of the most powerful programs on your computer. And probably one of the most underused. You can use it to stop or start Windows Services, check your computers performance, to end processes (programs) and to view all running applications on your computer – and more.
Task Manager shows you the programs, processes, and services that are currently running on your computer. You can use Task Manager to monitor your computer’s performance or to close a program that is not responding.
If you are connected to a network, you can also use Task Manager to view network status and see how your network is functioning. If more than one user is connected to your computer, you can see who is connected, what they are working on, and you can send them a message.
One of the ways we use Task Manager the most is to end problematical programs (processes). Have you ever had a program “freeze” or just refuse to close even if you clicked the “X” in the program toolbar until you were blue in the face? We all have had these kinds of experiences. The next time that happens, remember Windows Task Manager. You can end any unruly program by clicking the “Processes” tab, right-clicking on the application’s name and choosing “End Process”. It will terminate that process in an instant. A great way to avoid rebooting your computer when you find there’s a program open on your computer that has become frozen and refuses to close.
You can access Windows Task Manager in Windows XP by pressing the Ctrl + ALT + Delete keys. In Windows Vista you can use Ctrl + ALT + ESC. In Windows 7 you can access Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+SHIFT+ESC. You can also open Task Manager in XP/Vista and Windows 7 by right-clicking an empty area on the taskbar and then clicking Task Manager
The next time you have tasks to manage, don’t forget Windows Task Manager. That’s what it’s there for. So use it!
I am so glad someone has mentioned this wonderful little item. I have been using it since Windows 98, and since upgrading to Windows 7 thought I lost it. Therefore; I’m so happy that you give the combination. I used Ctrl + Alt + Delete in Windows 7 and it took me to the shutdown screen and gave me the option of using Task Manager but hopefully now, with your formula it will be a bit easier.
Thank you again for great work.
You can also use this program to reboot windows (its much quicker) simply open processes and close down ‘explorer.exe’
then go to File and click ‘New Task (Run)’ and type ‘explorer.exe’- very simple and a lot quicker than powering down and back up again
This was an old tip from these two stars (8Ball and the other one)-lol
Hi from Australia
It’s even quicker to make a shortcut to a command prompt. Then all you have to do is open the Command Prompt and type shutdown/r to restart or shutdown to shutdown your computer.
Task Manager is one more “Helper” that is so very helpful. Use it all the time. Used to use Ctrl Alt Del but now I use the Task Manager whenever…..
Soon I will be using Ctrl, Shift, Esc– on my new lap top.
Many thanks again.