Knowing which apps are currently running on your Windows computer can help you troubleshoot performance issues, close unresponsive programs, monitor system resources, and improve battery life. While some applications are visible on the taskbar, many others run in the background without obvious signs, consuming CPU, memory, disk, or network resources.
Windows 11 and Windows 10 include several built-in tools that let you view running apps, background processes, startup programs, and system services. Whether you’re trying to identify what’s slowing down your PC or simply want to check which programs are active, there are multiple ways to see all running apps.
This guide explains the best methods to view running applications in Windows 11 and Windows 10, along with tips for managing them safely.
Why Check Running Apps?
Viewing running apps can help you:
- Find programs using too much memory
- Identify high CPU usage
- Close frozen applications
- Improve system performance
- Monitor battery usage
- Detect unwanted background programs
- Troubleshoot software problems
- Check whether an app is actually running
Regularly reviewing running apps can also help you spot software that starts automatically without your knowledge.
Method 1: View Running Apps Using Task Manager
Task Manager is the easiest and most comprehensive way to see everything currently running on your computer.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Press:
Ctrl + Shift + Esc
Alternatively:
- Right-click the taskbar.
- Select Task Manager.
Step 2: View Running Apps
If Task Manager opens in compact mode, click:
More details
Under the Processes tab, you’ll see several categories, including:
- Apps
- Background processes
- Windows processes
The Apps section lists programs that are currently open and visible.
The Background processes section shows applications running without open windows.
The Windows processes section contains essential system components.
Step 3: View Resource Usage
Task Manager also displays:
- CPU usage
- Memory usage
- Disk activity
- Network usage
- GPU usage
- Power usage (on supported systems)
You can click any column heading to sort apps by resource usage.
Method 2: Use the Task View
Task View displays all currently open application windows.
Step 1: Open Task View
Press:
Windows + Tab
Or click the Task View button on the taskbar.
Step 2: Browse Running Windows
You’ll see every currently open window.
Click any window to switch to it.
Task View only shows applications with open windows, not background processes.
Method 3: Use Alt + Tab
Alt + Tab is a quick way to see active applications.
Press:
Alt + Tab
Hold Alt while repeatedly pressing Tab.
Windows displays thumbnails of currently open applications.
Release the keys to switch to the selected app.
Like Task View, this method only displays open windows.
Method 4: Check the System Tray
Some applications continue running after you close their main window.
Look near the clock on the taskbar.
Click the:
Show hidden icons
arrow.
You may see apps such as:
- Cloud storage services
- Antivirus software
- Messaging apps
- Backup utilities
- Hardware management software
These programs remain active even though they aren’t visible on the desktop.
Method 5: View Running Apps Using Windows Search
If you’re unsure whether a specific app is open:
Press:
Windows + S
Search for the application’s name.
If it’s already running, Windows may display options such as:
- Open
- Switch to
- Close window
This provides a quick way to locate active applications.
Method 6: Use Resource Monitor
Resource Monitor provides more detailed information about running applications and processes.
Step 1: Open Resource Monitor
Press:
Windows + R
Type:
resmonPress Enter.
Step 2: Review Running Processes
Select the:
CPU
tab.
You’ll see:
- Running processes
- CPU usage
- Threads
- Services
- Associated modules
Additional tabs display:
- Memory
- Disk
- Network
Resource Monitor is especially useful for diagnosing performance problems.
Method 7: View Running Apps with Command Prompt
Advanced users can list running processes from Command Prompt.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Search for:
Command Prompt
Open it.
Step 2: Run the Tasklist Command
Type:
tasklistPress Enter.
Windows displays:
- Process name
- Process ID (PID)
- Session name
- Memory usage
This command lists nearly every running process.
Method 8: View Running Processes with PowerShell
PowerShell offers another way to display active processes.
Open:
Windows PowerShell
Run:
Get-ProcessPress Enter.
You’ll see:
- Process names
- CPU time
- Process IDs
- Memory usage
PowerShell is useful for scripting and advanced administration.
Method 9: Check Startup Apps
Some apps automatically launch when Windows starts.
To see them:
Open:
Task Manager
Select the:
Startup (Windows 10)
or
Startup apps (Windows 11)
tab.
Here you’ll find:
- Startup status
- Startup impact
- Publisher information
Disabling unnecessary startup apps can improve boot times.
Method 10: View Background Apps in Settings
Windows allows certain apps to run in the background even when they aren’t open.
Windows 11
Open:
Settings
Go to:
Apps
Then:
Installed apps
Select an application.
Open:
Advanced options
Depending on the app, you may be able to control its background permissions.
Windows 10
Open:
Settings
Go to:
Privacy
Choose:
Background apps
You’ll see which apps are allowed to run in the background.
You can disable background activity for apps you don’t need.
How to Close a Running App
If an application is frozen or using excessive resources:
Open:
Task Manager
Select the application.
Click:
End task
Only close programs you recognize.
Avoid ending Windows system processes unless you’re certain they’re safe to stop.
How to Identify High Resource Usage
Task Manager makes it easy to identify demanding applications.
Sort by:
- CPU
- Memory
- Disk
- Network
- GPU
The app at the top of each column is currently using the most resources.
If performance feels slow, this can quickly reveal the cause.
Difference Between Apps and Processes
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they aren’t exactly the same.
Apps are programs you interact with, such as:
- Microsoft Word
- Google Chrome
- File Explorer
Processes include:
- Running apps
- Background services
- Windows components
- Driver-related tasks
One application may create several processes.
For example, a modern web browser often runs multiple processes for tabs, extensions, and graphics.
Tips for Managing Running Apps
To keep Windows running smoothly:
- Close apps you aren’t using.
- Disable unnecessary startup programs.
- Restart your PC occasionally.
- Keep Windows updated.
- Scan for malware if unfamiliar processes appear.
- Avoid installing unnecessary background utilities.
Managing running applications regularly can improve responsiveness and reduce resource usage.
Conclusion
Windows 11 and Windows 10 provide several easy ways to see all running apps and processes. For most users, Task Manager offers the most complete view, showing open applications, background processes, and detailed resource usage in one place. Other tools such as Task View, Resource Monitor, Command Prompt, and PowerShell provide additional ways to monitor system activity depending on your needs.
By understanding which applications are running and how much of your computer’s resources they consume, you can troubleshoot performance problems, close unnecessary programs, and keep your Windows PC operating efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to see all running apps?
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. It provides the most complete list of running apps and background processes.
Why do I see so many background processes?
Many Windows features, drivers, and installed applications run background processes to provide updates, notifications, security, and other services. This is normal.
Is it safe to end background processes?
Only end processes that you recognize and no longer need. Stopping essential Windows processes can cause system instability or force your computer to restart.
What’s the difference between Task View and Task Manager?
Task View only shows applications with open windows, making it useful for switching between programs. Task Manager displays both visible applications and background processes, along with detailed resource usage and management options.
