How to Check What Programs Are Running in the Background

The most commonly used and simplest method of seeing which programs you have running in the background on your computer is the Task Manager. Each operating system has a Task Manager (or equivalent) that allows you to keep track of the system memory being used by your machine (important for measuring performance) and closing programs running in the background. The Task Manager can also be used to monitor network and user activity.

Instructions

1. Press the CTRL, ALT, and Delete keys simultaneously. This will open the Task Manager. The task manager can be used to monitor how your computer is running and what programs are active.

2. Click the "Applications" tab. This is simply a general view of obvious programs you have open, such as your web browser.

3. Click the "Processes" tab. Here, you will see a list of all active programs running regardless of whether they are hidden. You can stop and close nonessential programs by right clicking on the program name and selecting "End Process Tree." When asked to confirm, click "End Process Tree." Be sure you are aware of the program you are closing because no work will be saved.

References

• Microsoft: Additional information on the task manager

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish