Task manager

KSysGuard 5.22.0 process table screenshot

Task Manager is a system monitor program used in Microsoft Windows operating systems that provides information about computer performance and running software, including the names of running processes, CPU load, commit charge, I/O details, logged-in users, and Windows services. Task Manager can also be used to set process priorities, forcibly terminate processes, and shut down, restart, log off, or switch to a user account.

Overview

The Task Manager was introduced in its earliest form with Windows NT 4.0. Over the years, it has been enhanced and improved with each version of Windows. The utility is accessible in several ways: via the Ctrl+Alt+Del keyboard shortcut, by right-clicking the Windows taskbar, or by executing the taskmgr.exe command in the Command Prompt or Run dialog box.

Features

Applications Tab

The Applications tab shows a list of all user-level programs currently running, not including system services. This tab allows users to end, switch to, or start new tasks.

Processes Tab

The Processes tab displays a list of all running processes and their CPU and memory usage. Users can end processes from this tab. In later versions of Windows, this tab also shows more detailed information about each process, including its description and security status.

Performance Tab

The Performance tab provides system performance graphs for CPU and memory usage, including a history of CPU usage and a breakdown of physical and kernel memory usage.

Networking Tab

In versions of Windows that include this tab, the Networking tab shows network utilization on a per-adapter basis, including the speed of the connection and the amount of data sent and received.

Users Tab

The Users tab shows all users currently logged into the computer. From here, it is possible to disconnect or log off users.

Advanced Features

In more recent versions of Windows, Task Manager has received significant enhancements. For example, the Windows 8 and Windows 10 versions include a more detailed performance tab, a new "App history" tab, and the ability to manage startup programs in the "Startup" tab. The Processes tab has also been revamped to show more detailed information about the resources each application or process is using.

Usage

Task Manager is commonly used for troubleshooting and system monitoring. It allows users to end unresponsive programs, monitor system resource usage, and perform basic system management tasks.

Access

To access Task Manager, users can press Ctrl+Alt+Del and select Task Manager, right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager, or use the Windows Key+X keyboard shortcut and select Task Manager from the menu. Alternatively, users can run taskmgr.exe directly.

Security

Task Manager provides basic security features, allowing users to view running processes and potentially identify malicious software. However, it does not replace dedicated security software.

Limitations

While Task Manager provides a wealth of information about system performance and running processes, it may not offer enough detail for advanced troubleshooting or system management tasks. In such cases, other tools like Resource Monitor or Performance Monitor may be more appropriate.