Windows 11, while not without its flaws, has made notable improvements to the Task Manager, enhancing user experience with a modern interface, a convenient search bar, and intuitive graphs. However, beyond these surface-level upgrades, there are several lesser-known features that can significantly enhance productivity and system management.
Generate live kernel dump using Task Manager
Among the Task Manager’s hidden gems is the ability to generate a kernel or full crash dump. This feature proves invaluable when troubleshooting unexpected crashes or the infamous Blue Screen of Death. By utilizing this function, Task Manager creates a system crash dump that can be analyzed to identify the root cause of the issue. Users have the option to forward this dump to Microsoft’s support team or even leverage tools like ChatGPT for analysis.
Pause Task Manager
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you need to terminate a process, but the Task Manager’s constantly updating screen complicates your efforts? A simple solution exists: by holding down the CTRL key, you can pause the updates, allowing you to easily locate and right-click the desired process without distractions. This handy trick is compatible with all Windows versions, from the classic Windows 95 to the latest Windows 11. For those who prefer real-time updates, holding the F5 key can refresh the values more frequently.
Efficiency mode
Another noteworthy feature is the “Efficiency Mode,” which can be activated by right-clicking any app or process within Task Manager. This mode limits CPU usage for selected applications, effectively reducing power consumption and freeing up resources for other tasks. It’s particularly beneficial for background processes that don’t require full CPU power. However, users should monitor performance closely, as enabling this feature may lead to lags in applications that demand higher processing capabilities.
Task Manager Startup apps
The Startup Apps section of Task Manager is a favorite among users looking to streamline their system’s performance. This feature provides a comprehensive overview of all applications set to launch automatically upon booting into Windows. Common entries might include Windows Defender, Google Chrome Updater, and Spotify. By disabling unnecessary startup applications, users can significantly reduce startup time and free up valuable system resources. Additionally, this section can help identify unusual programs that may pose security risks, allowing users to upload suspicious executables to services like VirusTotal for further investigation.
App history
The App History tab, often overlooked, offers insights into resource usage by applications since the last full shutdown. For instance, one might discover that Chrome has consumed a staggering 11GB of network data and 50 hours of CPU time. This feature is essential for users aiming to manage system performance effectively, providing a clear view of which applications are taxing resources and potentially slowing down the system.
As you explore these features, consider which Task Manager tools resonate most with your workflow. The insights gained can lead to a more efficient and responsive computing experience.
