[Guide] How to View Background Programs Running Processes

[Guide] How to View Background Programs Running Processes

/ Cris Mamon

Do you know all the apps and system processes running in the background on your PC? It’s important to be aware of all the system resources being used by these processes, as they can all impact your computer’s performance.

In this article, we’ll explain how to see which Background Programs are running and consuming system resources on your PC. We’ll also discuss why it’s important to monitor them regularly. By the end, you’ll have all the necessary knowledge to ensure your system’s processes are working properly.

View Background Programs Running Processes Using Task Manager

To see what apps are running as background processes/windows processes in a Windows operating system, one can use the Windows task manager utility presented by the graphical user interface of Windows 10.

Task manager helps show all apps, programs, and processes running on the device and their storage space. For viewing background programs by using task manager, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch task manager from the Windows icon main menu. Type task manager in the taskbar’s search. Double-click the option in the list to open the window.

Step 2: In the task manager window, navigate to the processes tab and check all the processes running in the background.

Step 3: If you want to end the particular process, click the process and then click end task.

google chrome end task

Step 4: To disable certain application processes running in the background, move to the startup tab and select the particular app. Click the app and select the option of disable.

disable startup programs

View Background Programs Running Processes via Computer Management

Another way to view background programs running (processes running in the background) is via computer management. Here is how you can do it.

Step 1: Launch Run utility from Windows key+ R. In the run command box, type compmgmt.msc and click ok to continue.

Step 2: In computer management windows, in front of the services option, click (+), and in front of the applications tab, click services.

Step 3: It will launch the list of services on the device. Click the service and check the description in the left pane of the description box.

windows update service window

Step 4: Now right-click any targeted service and select the properties option. In the properties pop-up window, navigate to the general tab, and under the section of Startup type, choose Disabled to disable the service working in the background.

disable windows update service

Step 5: Navigate to the dependencies tab and check which services are working according to other services on the device. Click Apply, followed by clicking ok to complete the action.

dependencies tab in service

Viewing Background Programs Running Processes – A Guide to Manage System Resources

This guide has explored the methods to view background programs and their running processes on your Windows system. You can effectively manage and optimize your computer’s performance by understanding which processes consume system resources. We discussed various approaches, including using the Task Manager, Resource Monitor, and third-party software, to gain insights into the running processes and their impact on system resources. With this knowledge, you can identify and address resource-intensive programs, terminate unnecessary processes, and ensure your system operates efficiently. By taking control of your background processes, you can enhance system responsiveness, improve multitasking, and enjoy a smoother computing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to See What Apps Are Running in the Background

Why Does My PC Freeze When Windows Task Manager Opens?

There are several possible reasons why your PC freezes when Windows Task Manager opens. One common cause is the presence of incompatible or outdated software. If you recently installed a new application, driver, or update, it may conflict with existing programs on your system.

Can I View Background Processes After I Select Task Manager?

Yes, you can view background processes after selecting Task Manager. Select the Processes tab after opening the Task Manager window to view all running programs and processes. You can also select “Show processes from all users” to see processes running under different accounts on your computer.

Why Do Apps Run in the Background?

Apps run in the background to provide users with a seamless experience. For instance, when you receive an email notification on your phone, the app must run in the background to push out this message. Apps can update content and other data without user input by running in the background.

What Are Essential Components Affected by Background Apps?

Background apps run on your device, consuming the memory and other resources without your direct knowledge. Some apps may be actively used, while others may run in the background without being opened or noticed.

Why Can’t I Directly Open Task Manager?

Task Manager is a powerful tool that can help you monitor and manage the processes running on your computer. However, it is not always easy to open Task Manager directly. Depending on how your system is configured, several methods exist for opening Task Manager.

Cris Mamon
Meet the author

Chris has been writing professionally since the early 2000s. He has written articles for newspapers and magazines, books on Windows software development, and technical documentation on Microsoft products. He also has a passion for helping people get started with technology.