How to Use Task Manager to Fix Slow or Frozen Programs
Using Task Manager
Task Manager is a built-in Windows tool that shows you what programs are running and lets you close programs that are not responding.
Opening Task Manager
Method 1: Keyboard Shortcut
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager directly.
Method 2: Right-Click Taskbar
- Right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen
- Click Task Manager
Method 3: Ctrl + Alt + Delete
- Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete
- Click Task Manager from the menu
Closing a Frozen Program
When a program stops responding:
- Open Task Manager
- Find the frozen program in the list (it may say Not Responding)
- Click on the program to select it
- Click End task in the bottom right corner
- Confirm if prompted
Tips for Closing Programs
- Only close programs you recognise
- Do not close Windows processes unless instructed by IT
- You may lose unsaved work in the program you close
- If the program will not close, contact IT
Checking What Is Using Your Resources
The Processes Tab
- Open Task Manager
- Click the Processes tab
- Look at the columns:
Understanding the Numbers
- High CPU (over 80% for extended periods) can cause slowness
- High Memory usage can make your computer sluggish
- High Disk usage can cause freezing and delays
Sorting by Usage
Click on any column header (CPU, Memory, Disk) to sort by that column. This helps you find what is using the most resources.
The More Details View
If Task Manager looks simple, click More details at the bottom to see the full version with more information.
Common Things You Might See
System or Windows Processes
These are normal and should not be closed:
- System
- Windows Explorer
- Desktop Window Manager
- Service Host processes
Browser Using Lots of Memory
Web browsers like Chrome and Edge can use significant memory. This is normal if you have many tabs open. Close some tabs to reduce memory usage.
Antivirus Scanning
Security software may temporarily use high CPU while scanning. This usually finishes within an hour.
When to Contact IT
Contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au if:
- Your computer is consistently slow
- A program freezes repeatedly
- You see unfamiliar programs using resources
- Task Manager itself will not open
Need Help?
For ongoing performance issues, contact helpdesk@netlumait.com.au or call 1300 521 162.
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