Using Windows Task Manager to Evaluate System Performance

Functions of the Task Manager

• Helps you monitor components such as CPU and RAM to gauge how efficiently your computer is running

• Enables you to quit programs not responding to mouse clicks or keyboard commands

Launching Task Manager

To launch Task Manager, complete one of the following:

• Press Ctrl + Alt + Del then select Task Manager

• Enter Task Manager in the search box, then select Task Manager

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc

• Open the Start Menu and select Task Manager

• All are good ways to access the task manager

Task Manager Tabs

Tabs focus on different aspects of system performance:

• Processes

• Performance

• Services

Processes Tab

• Lists apps and processes currently in use

• Reports status of each app

CPU Usage

• You can see what percentage of the CPU’s time each program is using

• Watch at different times to find out which programs are putting the biggest load on the CPU

Memory Usage

To view memory usage:

• Click on the column title to sort

• Programs’ current memory usage is shown

Performance Tab

• Displays summary information for CPU, memory, and disk usage

Services Tab

• Lists all services currently in use

• Status: Lists services as either Running or Stopped

• Can start service or stop service for any service program