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How to View Running Processes in Windows 11

Richard
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Richard
Nov 22, 2021 Updated Sep 15, 2026 2 min read
How to View Running Processes in Windows 11
How to View Running Processes in Windows 11

Task Manager is the built-in Windows 11 tool that shows every active app and background service running on your PC. This window lets you check real-time resource use so you can spot rogue programs that slow down your computer.

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Sudden freezes and loud fan noises often start when a single app hogs over 90 percent of your processor power. Checking this list helps you close those runaway programs and get your system running smoothly again in seconds.

⚡ Quick Answer

You view running processes in Windows 11 by opening the Task Manager . Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc, or right-click the Start button and select Task Manager . The Processes tab shows active applications and background tasks.

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Using Task Manager for Granular Control

Task Manager helps you view running processes in Windows 11 by showing every active application, background service, and system process currently using your computer’s hardware. You can open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc on your keyboard. This built-in tool lets you check real-time CPU, memory, disk, and network usage for each item so you can spot slowing apps or unresponsive programs right away.

Task Manager window showing active processes on Windows 11
task manager in windows 11

Stopping a running program requires selecting the name and clicking “End Task.” Some system programs require administrator permission to close. Lacking this permission results in Windows 11 blocking the closure to prevent system instability.

Resource Monitor vs. Task Manager

Resource Monitor offers a more detailed way to view running processes in Windows 11 compared to Task Manager by breaking down exact hardware usage per file, service, and network connection. While Task Manager gives you a quick look at overall system health, Resource Monitor helps you track down stubborn files that won’t delete, find which program is hogging your internet bandwidth, and diagnose deep performance bottlenecks.

Advanced Analysis with Sysinternals Process Explorer

Process Explorer, a Microsoft utility built for power users, offers an advanced alternative to Task Manager . The tool displays a process tree, clearly showing which parent process started each task. Identifying malicious software that attempts to hide by imitating legitimate system names works best through this method.

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Using Command-Line Tools

Command-line tools like Command Prompt and PowerShell let you view running processes in Windows 11 using text commands instead of clicking through windows. These built-in utilities are useful when you need to save a text list of your active programs, script automated tasks, or manage your computer remotely without using the standard graphical interface.

Command Prompt running as administrator on Windows 11
windows 11 command prompt administrator

To list all tasks, use this command:

tasklist

To export your process list to a text file, use:

get-process

For a detailed view including the Process ID (PID), use:

wmic process get ProcessId,Description,ParentProcessId
PowerShell window opened as administrator in Windows 11
windows 11 powershell run as administrator

Summary

Monitoring system processes maintains optimal PC performance, leveraging Task Manager for quick fixes, Resource Monitor for deep analysis, and command-line tools for automation.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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