Open task manager on Windows 11 and Windows 10

windows task manager
windows task manager

Last updated: December 1, 2023

Le task Manager is a Windows utility that allows you to view, control and administer the various programs running on a computer. In Windows 10 and Windows 11, there are several ways to launch the task manager.

The functions of the task manager

Le Windows task manager allows access to various functions:

  • View all of the programs and processes that are currently running on a Windows computer.
  • Analyze computer performance (identify the programs that use the most resources).
  • Force stop a program that crashes or freezes.
  • Stop an unnecessary program present in the background.

The different methods to launch the task manager

1) Launch the task manager from the taskbar

Right click on the task bar with the mouse. The task bar then displays its context menu. At the bottom of the list of operations, you will find “Task Manager”.

Taskbar 1
By clicking on it, you launch the task manager. Depending on the security settings, you may have an alert message requesting permission.

Answer "Yes" to authorize the launch.
Alert Message 2

2) Launch the task manager with a specific keyboard shortcut

Simultaneous pressing of the keys [CTRL] + [Shift] + [ESC] automatically launches the task manager.
The [Shift] key is sometimes noted as [Shift], represents an up arrow. The [ESC] key, sometimes noted as [Esc], is also called the “escape key”.
Keyboard CTRL SHIFT ESC 1
Depending on the security settings, you may have an alert message requesting permission. Answer "Yes" to authorize the launch.

3) Start the task manager with a general keyboard shortcut

Simultaneous pressing of the keys [CTRL] + [ALT] + [DEL] is a well-known combination of keys, which allows to shut down a computer under Windows.

Under Windows 10 or Windows 11, this key combination provides access to a list of possible operations, including shutting down the computer, but also launching the task manager.
Keyboard WINDOW CTRL ALT DEL 1 1
Choose " Task Manager In the list proposed to launch the task manager.
CTRL ALT DEL Windows10 V0
Depending on the security settings, you may have an alert message requesting permission. Answer "Yes" to authorize the launch.

4) Start the task manager with a specific shortcut

By simultaneously pressing the keys [Windows logo key] + [R] the execution dialog box is launched.
WINDOW R 1 keyboard
Fill in the name of the program corresponding to the task manager: Taskmgr.exe and press [OK].
Task Manager Exe 1
Depending on the security settings, you may have an alert message requesting permission. Answer "Yes" to authorize the launch.

Video to open task manager in Windows 11

Conclusion

Here ! This is the end of our list! Some methods are obviously more effective than others, but if you find yourself in a difficult situation (keyboard or mouse not working, or whatever), any method that works is good.

Knowing the different ways to open Task Manager in Windows 10 and Windows 11 can come in handy in many situations.

Before closing this tab, tell us your preferred method of opening this little program.

EL JAOUARI is an author and trainer. Passionate about IT security and new technologies. His tutorials have helped many people to better master today's computer tools.