How To Force Close Without Task Manager on windows

How To Force Close Without Task Manager on WindowsSometimes, we encounter problems with our computer applications where they become unresponsive or freeze. In such instances, it becomes necessary to force close the application to prevent it from causing further issues. The usual method for force closing applications on Windows is through the Task Manager. However, there are alternative methods that can be used. In this article, we will explore these options and provide a step-by-step guide on how to force close applications without using the Task Manager.

What is Task Manager?

Task Manager is a built-in utility tool in Windows that allows users to monitor and manage running processes and applications. It provides information on the CPU, memory, disk usage, and network utilization of each application. Task Manager also allows users to end tasks and processes that are not responding or causing issues.

• How to access Task Manager

There are several ways to access Task Manager in Windows. One way is to right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager from the menu. Another way is to press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on the keyboard. Additionally, users can press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Task Manager from the options.

Alternatives to Task Manager for Force Closing

Option 1: Alt + F4

Alt + F4 is a keyboard shortcut that can be used to force close applications. This method works for most applications, but not all. Alt + F4 sends a close signal to the active window, which then prompts the application to close.

Steps to force close using Alt + F4:

1. Click on the application window that you want to force close.

2. Press Alt + F4 on the keyboard.

3. If the application is responsive, it will close immediately. If it is not responsive, a dialog box will appear asking if you want to force close the application.

4. Click on "Force Close" to close the application.

Option 2: Command Prompt

Command Prompt is a command-line utility tool in Windows that allows users to execute commands and scripts. It can also be used to force close applications by ending their processes.

• Explanation of how Command Prompt works for force closing:

Command Prompt uses a command called "taskkill" to end processes. This command can be used to terminate a specific process by name or process ID.

• Steps to force close using Command Prompt:

1. Open Command Prompt by pressing Windows key + R, typing "cmd" and pressing Enter.

2. Type "tasklist" and press Enter to view a list of running processes and their process IDs.

3. Find the process that corresponds to the application you want to force close and take note of its process ID.

4. Type "taskkill /pid [process ID]" and press Enter. Replace [process ID] with the actual process ID of the application.

5. The application will be force closed.

Option 3: Windows PowerShell

Windows PowerShell is a more advanced version of Command Prompt that has more features and capabilities. It can also be used to force close applications using the "taskkill" command.

• Explanation of how Windows PowerShell works for force closing:

Windows PowerShell works the same way as Command Prompt for force closing applications. The only difference is that Windows PowerShell has more advanced features and capabilities.

• Steps to force close using Windows PowerShell:

1. Open Windows PowerShell by pressing Windows key + R, typing "powershell" and pressing Enter.

2. Type "tasklist" and press Enter to view a list of running processes and their process IDs.

3. Find the process that corresponds to the application you want to force close and take note of its process ID.

4. Type "taskkill /pid [process ID]" and press Enter. Replace [process ID] with the actual process ID of the application.

5. The application will be force closed.

While Task Manager is the usual method for force closing applications on Windows, there are alternative methods that can be used. Alt + F4, Command Prompt, and Windows PowerShell are all viable options for force closing applications that are unresponsive or causing issues. By following the steps outlined in this article, users can effectively manage their running applications and prevent issues from escalating.