Canonical: https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/performance/processes/open-task-manager/

See running apps, startup items, and hardware usage. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Follow the steps in order and stop if the screen or target does not match.

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Performance


# How to Open Task Manager




## How do I open Task Manager?




Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.




See running apps, startup items, and hardware usage.




Updated 
September 2, 2026
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 5 min
Applies to: Windows, Windows 10, Windows 11


 


Follow the steps in order and stop if the screen or target does not match what is described. Use administrator access only when the task requires it.




**Before you begin**


Save open work. Confirm that you are working on the intended computer and that you are authorized to make the change.




## Open Task Manager




Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.




## Show the full view




Select More details if the compact view appears.




## Inspect activity




Use Processes for current apps and usage, Performance for graphs, and Startup apps for sign-in items.




## End tasks carefully




End only an application you recognize and only after saving its work. Do not end Windows processes at random.




**Verify the result**


Repeat the relevant check and confirm the intended result before considering the task complete.