How to Stop Running Apps in Windows 10
Ever wondered how to stop apps that are running in the background on your Windows 10 computer? You’ve come to the right place! It’s pretty simple: you can use Task Manager to end tasks manually or alter settings to prevent apps from running in the background. Follow the steps below to learn how to do this.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Stop Running Apps in Windows 10
Following these steps will help you stop unnecessary apps from running, which can free up system resources and improve performance.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Task Manager is a powerful tool that shows you all the applications and processes currently running on your computer. You can also open it by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting "Task Manager."
Step 2: Find the Running App
Click on the "Processes" tab and find the app you want to stop.
The "Processes" tab lists active applications and background processes. You can sort them by name or resource usage to find the specific app you’re looking for.
Step 3: End the Task
Right-click on the app and select "End task."
Ending a task forces the app to close immediately, which helps free up resources. Be cautious when ending tasks, as closing essential system processes can cause your computer to become unstable.
Step 4: Open Settings
Press Windows + I to open Settings.
The Settings menu is where you can manage various Windows 10 features, including background app permissions. You can also access it by clicking on the Start menu and selecting "Settings."
Step 5: Manage Background Apps
Navigate to Privacy > Background apps and toggle off the apps you don’t want running.
By disabling unnecessary background apps, you can prevent them from consuming system resources and running without your knowledge.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you should notice an improvement in your computer’s performance. Apps that were eating up memory and processing power will no longer be running in the background.
Tips for How to Stop Running Apps in Windows 10
- Regularly check Task Manager: Make it a habit to check Task Manager periodically to see if any unnecessary apps are running.
- Update your software: Outdated software can sometimes misbehave and run in the background without your consent.
- Disable startup programs: Use Task Manager to disable applications that start automatically when you boot up your computer.
- Use lightweight apps: Opt for lightweight versions of apps that serve the same purpose to avoid hogging system resources.
- Monitor system performance: Keep an eye on your computer’s performance metrics to spot any unusual activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if an app is running in the background?
You can see which apps are running in the background by opening Task Manager and looking under the "Processes" tab.
Can stopping a running app harm my computer?
Stopping non-essential apps is generally safe, but be careful not to end system-critical processes, which could cause instability.
How do I stop apps from running on startup?
Open Task Manager, go to the "Startup" tab, and disable the apps you don’t want to start automatically.
Is it safe to disable all background apps?
Disabling all background apps may hinder the functionality of some programs you rely on. Only disable apps you are sure you don’t need running in the background.
Will stopping apps improve my computer’s speed?
Yes, stopping unnecessary apps can free up system resources, leading to better performance and faster speeds.
Summary
- Open Task Manager
- Find the Running App
- End the Task
- Open Settings
- Manage Background Apps
Conclusion
Stopping running apps in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your computer’s performance. By using Task Manager to manually end tasks and adjusting your settings to prevent unwanted apps from running in the background, you can free up valuable system resources. Regularly monitoring and maintaining your computer’s performance metrics ensures a smoother and faster user experience. If you’re looking for more ways to optimize your Windows 10 system, consider exploring other built-in tools and settings. It’s also helpful to stay updated on best practices and new features that Microsoft introduces. Keep your software up to date and make it a habit to review your system’s performance, so you can enjoy a more efficient and hassle-free computing experience.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.