The recent Windows 11 update, rolled out on July 25, introduces a streamlined approach for users to terminate unresponsive applications. For those familiar with the Windows environment, the experience of force-closing a malfunctioning app is all too common. Traditionally, this required navigating to the Task Manager through various methods, such as pressing CTRL+ALT+DEL, right-clicking an empty area on the taskbar, or utilizing the Windows Key for a quick search. Once in Task Manager, users would select the problematic application and either hit the delete key or right-click to choose “end task” from the menu.
With the latest update, Windows 11 enhances this process significantly. Users can now right-click directly on the taskbar to select “end task,” making the app-killing experience much more efficient. While this quick-kill feature is not enabled by default, it can be easily activated in the Windows Settings.
How to get the new “End Task” shortcut
To take advantage of the new “End Task” shortcut, ensure that your system is running the latest version of Windows 11. This feature is part of the July 25, 2024 update (OS Builds 22621.3958 and 22631.3958). Here’s how to enable it:
- Open the Windows Settings application
- Click on “System”
- Select “For developers”
- Scroll down to “End Task” and toggle the taskbar End Task feature on (or off)
Once activated, you can swiftly right-click on any application in the taskbar and select “End task” with just two clicks. Although this setting is primarily designed for developers, many of the most useful features are often hidden within developer settings or other menus. In my experience testing this feature, I encountered no difficulties in closing applications via the taskbar menu shortcut, allowing users to enjoy this newfound efficiency.
