Microsoft windows task manager

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Task Manager

Task Manager, previously known as Windows Task Manager, is a task manager, system monitor, and startup manager included with Microsoft Windows systems. It provides information about computer performance and running software, including names of running processes, CPU and GPU load, commit charge, I/O details, logged-in users, and Windows services. Task Manager can also be used to set process priorities, processor affinity, start and stop services, and forcibly terminate processes.

The program can be started in recent versions of Windows by pressing ⊞ Win+R and then typing in taskmgr.exe, by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete and clicking Task Manager, by pressing Ctrl+⇧ Shift+Esc, by using Windows Search in the Start Menu and typing taskmgr, by right-clicking on the Windows taskbar and selecting «Task Manager», by typing taskmgr in the File Explorer address bar, or by typing taskmgr in Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell.

Task Manager was introduced in its current form with Windows NT 4.0. Prior versions of Windows NT, as well as Windows 3.x, include the Task List application, are capable of listing currently running processes and killing them, or creating new processes. Windows 9x has a program known as Close Program which lists the programs currently running and offers options to close programs as well shut down the computer.^[1]

Since Windows 8, Task Manager has two views. The first time Task Manager is invoked by a user, it shows in a simplified summary mode (described in the user experience as Fewer Details). It can be switched to a more detailed mode by clicking More Details. This setting is remembered for that user on that machine.^[2]

Since around the release of Windows 2000, the CPU usage could be displayed as a tray icon in the task bar for a quick glance.^[3][4]

In summary mode, Task Manager shows a list of currently running programs that have a main window. It has a «more details» hyperlink that activates a full-fledged Task Manager with several tabs.

Right-clicking any of the applications in the list allows switching to that application or ending the application’s task. Issuing an end task causes a request for graceful exit to be sent to the application.

The Processes tab shows a list of all running processes on the system. This list includes Windows Services and processes from other accounts. The Delete key can also be used to terminate processes on the Processes tab. By default, the processes tab shows the user account the process is running under, the amount of CPU, and the amount of memory the process is currently consuming. There are more columns that can be shown. The Processes tab divides the process into three categories:

• Apps: Programs with a main window
• Windows processes: Components of Windows itself that do not have a main window, including services
• Background process: Programs that do not have a main window, including services, and are not part of the Windows itself

This tab shows the name of every main window and every service associated with each process. Both a graceful exit command and a termination command can be sent from this tab, depending on whether the command is sent to the process or its window.

The Details tab is a more basic version of the Processes tab, and acts similar to the Processes tab in Windows 7 and earlier. It has a more rudimentary user experience and can perform some additional actions. Right-clicking a process in the list allows changing the priority the process has, setting processor affinity (setting which CPU(s) the process can execute on), and allows the process to be ended. Choosing to End Process causes Windows to immediately kill the process. Choosing to «End Process Tree» causes Windows to immediately kill the process, as well as all processes directly or indirectly started by that process. Unlike choosing End Task from the Applications tab, when choosing to End Process the program is not given a warning nor a chance to clean up before ending. However, when a process that is running under a security context different from the one which issued the call to Terminate Process, the use of the KILL command-line utility is required.^[5]

The Performance tab shows overall statistics about the system’s performance, most notably the overall amount of CPU usage and how much memory is being used. A chart of recent usage for both of these values is shown. Details about specific areas of memory are also shown.

There is an option to break the CPU usage graph into two sections: kernel mode time and user mode time. Many device drivers, and core parts of the operating system run in kernel mode, whereas user applications run in user mode. This option can be turned on by choosing Show kernel times from the View menu. When this option is turned on the CPU usage graph will show a green and a red area. The red area is the amount of time spent in kernel mode, and the green area shows the amount of time spent in user mode.

The Performance tab also shows statistics relating to each of the network adapters present in the computer. By default, the adapter name, percentage of network utilization, link speed, and state of the network adapter are shown, along with a chart of recent activity.

The App history tab shows resource usage information about Universal Windows Platform apps. Windows controls the life cycle of these apps more tightly. This tab is where the data that Windows has collected about them, and then be viewed at a later time. In Windows 11, it’s updated to show resource use information of regular apps as well.

The Startup tab manages software that starts with Windows shell.

The Users tab shows all users that currently have a session on the computer. On server computers, there may be several users connected to the computer using Terminal Services (or the Fast User Switching service, on Windows XP). Users can be disconnected or logged off from this tab.

Task Manager was originally an external side project developed at home by Microsoft developer David William Plummer;^[6] encouraged by Dave Cutler and coworkers to make it part of the main product «build», he donated the project in 1995. The original task manager design featured a different Processes page with information being taken from the public Registry APIs rather than the private internal operating system metrics.

A Close Program dialog box comes up when Ctrl+Alt+Delete is pressed in Windows 9x.^[1] Also, in Windows 9x, there is a program called Tasks (TASKMAN.EXE) located in the Windows directory. It is rudimentary and has fewer features. The System Monitor utility in Windows 9x contains process and network monitoring functionality similar to that of the Windows Task Manager. Also, the Tasks program is called by clicking twice on the desktop if the Explorer process is down.

In Windows XP only, there is a «Shut Down» menu that provides access to Standby, Hibernate, Turn off, Restart, Log Off, and Switch User. This is because, by default in Windows XP, pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete opens the Task Manager instead of opening a dialog that provides access to the Task Manager in addition to the options mentioned above.

On the Performance tab, the display of the CPU values was changed from a display mimicking a LED seven-segment display, to a standard numeric value. This was done to accommodate non-Arabic numeral systems, such as Eastern Arabic numerals, which cannot be represented using a seven-segment display.^[7]

Prior to Windows XP, process names longer than 15 characters in length are truncated. This problem is resolved in Windows XP.^[8]

The users tab is introduced by Windows XP.

Beginning with Windows XP, the Delete key is enabled on the Processes tab.

Windows Task Manager has been updated in Windows Vista with new features,^[9] including:

• A «Services» tab to view and modify currently running Windows services and start and stop any service as well as enable/disable the User Account Control (UAC) file and registry virtualization of a process.
• New «Image Path Name» and «Command Line», and «Description» columns in the Processes tab. These show the full name and path of the executable image running in a process, any command-line parameters that were provided, and the image file’s «Description» property.
• New columns showing DEP and virtualization statuses. Virtualization status refers to UAC virtualization, under which file and registry references to certain system locations will be silently redirected to user-specific areas.
• By right-clicking on any process, it is possible to directly open the Properties of the process’s executable image file or of the directory (folder) containing the process.
• The Task Manager has also been made less vulnerable to attack from remote sources or viruses as it must be operating under administrative rights to carry out certain tasks, such as logging off other connected users or sending messages. The user must go into the «Processes» tab and click «Show processes from other users» in order to verify administrative rights and unlock these privileges. Showing processes from all users requires all users including administrators to accept a UAC prompt, unless UAC is disabled. If the user is not an administrator, they must enter a password for an administrator account when prompted to proceed, unless UAC is disabled, in which case the elevation does not occur.
• By right-clicking on any running process, it is possible to create a dump. This feature can be useful if an application or a process is not responding, so that the dump file can be opened in a debugger to get more information.
• The «Shut Down» menu containing Standby, Hibernate, Turn off, Restart, Log Off and Switch User has been removed. This was done due to low usage, and to reduce the overall complexity of Task Manager.^[10]
• The Performance tab shows the system uptime.

In Windows 8, Windows Task Manager has been overhauled and the following changes^[2] were made:

• Starting in Windows 8, the tabs are hidden by default and Task Manager opens in summary mode (Fewer details). This view only shows applications and their associated processes. Prior to Windows 8, what is shown in the summary mode was shown in the tab named «Applications».
• Resource utilization in the Processes tab is shown with various shades of yellow, with darker color representing heavier use.
• The Performance tab is split into CPU, memory, disk, ethernet, and wireless network (if applicable) sections. There are overall graphs for each, and clicking on one reaches details for that particular resource. This includes consolidating information that previously appeared in the Networking tab from Windows XP through Windows 7.
  • The CPU tab no longer displays individual graphs for every logical processor on the system by default. It now can show data for each NUMA node.
  • The CPU tab now displays simple percentages on heat-mapping tiles to display utilization for systems with many (64 up to 640) logical processors.^[11] The color used for these heat maps is blue, with darker color again indicating heavier utilization.
  • Hovering the cursor over any logical processor’s data now shows the NUMA node of that processor and its ID.
• A new Startup tab has been added that lists running startup applications.^[12] Previously, MSConfig was in charge of this task, or in Windows Vista only, the «Software Explorer» section of Windows Defender.^[13] The Windows Defender that shipped built-into Windows 7 lacked this option, and it was also not present in the downloadable Microsoft Security Essentials either.
• The Processes tab now lists application names, application status, and overall usage data for CPU, memory, hard disk, and network resources for each process.
• A new App History tab is introduced.
  • The application status can be changed to suspended.
  • The normal process information found in the older Task Manager can be found in the new Details tab.

• The Processes tab is divided into categories.^[14]
• Display GPU information in the Performance tab, if the GPU supports WDDM 2.0 or later.
• Since Windows 10 2004, Task Manager can display disk type (HDD or SSD) in the Performance tab.

• Windows 11 22H2 has introduced a redesigned Task Manager.
• During a 2022 update, Efficiency mode was introduced to Task Manager.
• The new Task Manager features a search function.
• Since Windows 11 24H2, Task Manager uses MT/s as unit for main memory speed, replaced older MHz.
• Since Windows 11 24H2 26100.2454, Task Manager can display disk interface type in the Performance tab.^[15]

Task Manager is a common target of computer viruses and other forms of malware; typically malware will close or otherwise disable the Task Manager as soon as it is started, so as to hide itself from users. Some malware will also disable the Task Manager as an administrator. Variants of the Zotob and Spybot worms have used this technique, for example.^{[16][obsolete source]} Using Group Policy, it is possible to disable the Task Manager. Many types of malware also enable this policy setting in the registry. Rootkits can prevent themselves from getting listed in the Task Manager, thereby preventing their detection and termination using it.

• Resource Monitor
• Process Explorer
• Taskkill
• Tasklist
• Windows Task Scheduler

• How to use and troubleshoot issues with Windows Task Manager, Microsoft Help and Support
• Windows 8 Task Manager In-Depth Archived April 2, 2015, at the Wayback Machine, Gavin Gear, Blogging Windows

• Youtube, Inside Task Manager with the Original Author, Dave’s Garage Dave Plummer History of writing and debugging Task Manager.

Task Manager: A Comprehensive Overview and Guide

In the realm of operating systems, task management is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and user productivity. Among the various tools that facilitate this, Windows Task Manager stands out as a powerful and essential component of Microsoft Windows. Whether you are a casual user or an advanced computer technician, understanding how to navigate and leverage Task Manager can significantly impact your computing experience. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of Windows Task Manager, exploring its features, functionalities, and tips for using it effectively.

What is Task Manager?

Task Manager is a system monitoring utility included with Windows operating systems that allows users to view and control the processes and applications running on their computers. Introduced in Windows NT 4.0 and continually refined in subsequent releases, Task Manager serves various purposes, including monitoring performance, managing applications, and troubleshooting issues related to background processes.

The development of Task Manager reflects the evolution of user needs and technological advancements. The simplicity of its early versions has grown into a sophisticated tool that supports advanced features like resource monitoring, startup management, and user session management.

Overview of Task Manager Features

1. Processes Tab

The Processes tab provides a detailed view of all currently running processes on the system. Each entry lists information such as:

• Name: The name of the program or process.
• Status: Indicates whether the process is running or suspended.
• CPU Usage: Shows the percentage of CPU resources utilized by the process.
• Memory Usage: Displays the amount of RAM consumed by the process.
• Disk and Network Utilization: These columns can provide insights into the disk and network performance of each process.

Users can end a task or process directly from this tab by selecting the entry and clicking “End Task.” This function is particularly useful in cases where applications become unresponsive.

2. Performance Tab

This tab offers a graphical representation of system performance data, including CPU, memory, disk, and network activity. The Performance tab provides users with real-time feedback on:

• CPU Utilization: Visual charts display current CPU usage levels and history.
• Memory Usage: Indicates available and used RAM, helping users assess whether memory upgrades are required.
• Disk Activity: Tracks disk read/write operations and their impact on performance.
• Network Utilization: Offers insights into network bandwidth usage and can help identify bottlenecks.

The Performance tab is especially beneficial for identifying resource-hungry processes and overall system health.

3. App History Tab (Windows 8 and later)

Introduced in Windows 8, the App History tab provides insights into the resource usage of Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps. Users can see how much CPU time and network data apps have consumed over time. This information is vital for evaluating which applications may be slowing down your system and can help in deciding whether to keep or uninstall them.

4. Startup Tab

The Startup tab is a powerful feature for managing which programs launch when Windows starts. A bloated startup can slow down boot times significantly. This tab enables users to:

• Enable or disable startup applications.
• Review the impact on startup performance, allowing users to make informed decisions.

Proper management of startup items can lead to a noticeable improvement in overall system performance.

5. Users Tab

The Users tab shows all the currently logged-in users on the system. For each user, it provides information on the processes they are running, CPU resources consumed, and memory usage. This feature is particularly useful in multi-user environments, such as on shared computers within organizations.

6. Details Tab

The Details tab delves even deeper into the processes running on the system, providing a list of all background processes with detailed information, including:

• PID (Process Identifier): A unique identifier for each process.
• Status: Information on whether the process is running or suspended.
• User Name: The user account that initiated the process.

This tab is geared toward advanced users who need precise control and understanding of each process.

7. Services Tab

The Services tab displays all Windows services, letting users start, stop, and manage services without needing to navigate to the Services management console. By reviewing services that are unnecessary, users can improve system performance. A clear understanding of which services are running allows for increased control and customization of your operating system.

Using Task Manager for Troubleshooting

Task Manager is an invaluable tool for troubleshooting various system issues. Here’s how it can help:

1. Resolving Unresponsive Applications: When an application freezes, Task Manager can be used to force it to close, freeing resources and allowing the user to regain control.

2. Analyzing System Performance: By examining resource use in the Performance tab, users can identify which applications consume excessive resources, pinpointing potential causes of slow performance.

3. Monitoring Resource-Intensive Processes: The Processes tab can reveal any rogue or well-known resource-heavy processes, enabling users to investigate further or close them if necessary.

4. Investigating Network Issues: The Performance tab provides vital statistics on network activity, helping diagnose issues related to internet connectivity or slow speeds.

5. Unwanted Startup Programs: The Startup tab lets users disable any unneeded programs that automatically execute at boot time, reducing startup latency.

Security and Task Manager

Security is paramount, and Task Manager serves as a first line of defense.

1. Identifying Suspicious Processes: If you notice unknown or unaware processes in Task Manager, it could indicate malicious activity or malware. Researching these processes can clarify whether they are legitimate or harmful.

2. Monitoring Services: Checking the Services tab helps ensure that only essential services are running, minimizing vulnerabilities.

3. User Management: Understanding which users are logged in and what resources they are consuming can prevent unauthorized usage and potential security breaches.

Advanced Features in Task Manager

For advanced users and system administrators, Task Manager offers additional functionalities that can be leveraged for effective system management:

1. Creating a Dump File: In the Details tab, right-clicking a process allows you to create a dump file for analysis. This is useful for developers debugging complex applications.

2. Setting Priority and Affinity: Right-clicking a process in the Details tab allows users to adjust the priority, which directs how much CPU time the process should receive compared to others. Changing CPU affinity can restrict a process to run on specific CPU cores, which is particularly useful in multi-core systems.

3. Resource Monitor Integration: Task Manager seamlessly integrates with Resource Monitor. By clicking on the “Open Resource Monitor” link from the Performance tab, users can access more advanced monitoring tools for CPU, memory, disk, and network metrics.

4. Performance History: Windows Task Manager now retains historical data on resource usage over time (particularly useful for investigative purposes).

5. Visual Styles and Themes: Users can personalize the Task Manager interface, providing a more organized and visually appealing experience.

Tips for Effective Use of Task Manager

To harness the full capabilities of Task Manager, consider the following best practices:

1. Regular Monitoring: Make it a habit to check Task Manager periodically. This can help you catch issues before they escalate into more significant problems.

2. Learn Shortcut Keys: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts: pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc opens Task Manager quickly.

3. Research Unknown Processes: When you come across unfamiliar processes, search for them online. There are many resources that can clarify what a specific process is and whether it is necessary.

4. Manage Startup Items Wisely: Regularly review the Startup tab to ensure only essential applications are set to launch at boot.

5. Educate Yourself on Performance Metrics: Take the time to learn what normal performance looks like for your system. This knowledge can help you identify and rectify unusual behavior quickly.

6. Use Detailed Views for Advanced Diagnostics: For serious troubleshooting, rely on the Details and Services tabs to gain deeper insights into what is happening on your system.

7. Update Frequently: Ensure your Windows OS is up to date to benefit from the latest Task Manager features and performance improvements.

8. Utilize Other Tools: While Task Manager is powerful, don’t forget that it can work alongside other diagnostic tools such as Event Viewer, Resource Monitor, and third-party utilities for deeper analysis.

Conclusion

Windows Task Manager is a multifaceted tool that goes far beyond mere application management. Its features range from simple process monitoring to advanced system analysis, making it indispensable for both casual users and IT professionals. Mastering Task Manager can lead to significant improvements in system performance, user productivity, and overall operational efficiency.

Whether you are troubleshooting an issue, monitoring system health, or managing startup applications, the insights provided by Task Manager are invaluable. As Windows continues to evolve, so too does Task Manager, promising even more enhancements that will further empower users to take control of their computers. Understanding and leveraging Task Manager will not only streamline your computing experience but also help you become more attuned to the inner workings of your Windows system.

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