Blog

How to Close or Disable Programs That Still Run in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide to Fix and Solve Errors

Sometimes, programs in Windows 11 continue running in the background even after you close their windows. This can slow down your computer or cause errors. Knowing how to properly close or disable these programs helps keep your system running smoothly.

This guide will walk you through simple, step-by-step methods to stop programs that keep running unnecessarily. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along.

By learning these techniques, you can fix common issues and improve your computer’s performance. Let’s explore how to manage running programs effectively in Windows 11.

You don’t need any advanced skills — just a little patience and these easy instructions.

Quick Note

Before you start, make sure to save any important work. Closing programs abruptly may cause you to lose unsaved data. Also, some system programs are essential for Windows to run properly, so avoid disabling programs unless you are sure they are not needed.

It can help to know the name of the program you want to close or disable. If you’re unsure, you can check the program’s icon or name in the Task Manager.

Step 1: Close Programs Using the Taskbar

The easiest way to close a program is using the taskbar:

  1. Locate the program icon on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen.
  2. Right-click the icon to open a menu.
  3. Select “Close window”. This attempts to close the program normally.

This step is important because it allows the program to close safely, saving any data if possible.

Step 2: Use Task Manager to Force Close Programs

If a program does not close with the taskbar method, you can force it to close using Task Manager:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Task Manager.
  2. In Task Manager, look under the Processes tab for the program that is still running.
  3. Click the program name to select it.
  4. Click the End task button at the bottom-right corner.

Task Manager closes the program immediately, which can fix freezing or unresponsive apps. However, unsaved work may be lost, so use this carefully.

Step 3: Disable Startup Programs to Prevent Automatic Running

Some programs start automatically when Windows boots. Disabling unnecessary startup programs helps reduce background processes:

  1. Open Task Manager again (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
  2. Go to the Startup tab.
  3. Look through the list for programs you don’t want to run automatically.
  4. Select the program and click Disable.

Disabling startup programs speeds up boot time and reduces background resource use. You can always re-enable them later if needed.

Step 4: Use Settings to Manage Background Apps

Windows 11 allows you to control which apps can run in the background:

  1. Click the Start button and select Settings (gear icon).
  2. Go to Apps > Apps & features.
  3. Find the app you want to stop from running in the background and click the three dots next to it.
  4. Select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll to Background apps permissions and choose Never.

This prevents the app from running tasks when you are not actively using it, saving battery and system resources.

Step 5: Use System Configuration (msconfig) for Advanced Control

If you want more control over startup programs and services, use the System Configuration tool:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type msconfig and press Enter.
  3. Go to the Services tab.
  4. Check Hide all Microsoft services to avoid disabling essential system services.
  5. Uncheck services you don’t need, then click Apply and OK.
  6. Restart your computer to apply changes.

This method is useful for advanced users who want to troubleshoot or optimize startup behavior.

Alternative Method: Use Command Prompt to Kill Processes

For users comfortable with commands, the Command Prompt can be used to close programs:

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator by right-clicking the Start button and selecting Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
tasklist

This shows all running processes.

  1. Find the program’s process name (e.g., notepad.exe).
  2. Type the command below to kill that process:
taskkill /IM processname.exe /F

Replace processname.exe with the exact name of the program’s process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do some programs keep running after I close them?

Many programs run background services or processes to update, sync data, or provide notifications. These processes continue running to keep the program ready or up to date.

Is it safe to force close programs using Task Manager?

Yes, but use it carefully. Force closing can cause data loss if the program was not saved properly. It is best used when a program is frozen or unresponsive.

Can disabling startup programs harm my computer?

Disabling non-essential startup programs is generally safe and improves performance. However, avoid disabling Microsoft or security-related services to prevent system issues.

How do I know which programs are safe to disable?

Research the program name online or ask someone knowledgeable if you are unsure. If a program is related to your antivirus or system, it’s best to keep it enabled.

What if a program restarts automatically after I close it?

This usually happens when the program is set to run in the background or has a helper service. You may need to disable it from startup programs or background apps settings.

When Nothing Works

If you still cannot close or disable a stubborn program, consider the following options:

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes a fresh start stops programs from running.
  • Update Windows and the program: Bugs in older versions can cause issues, so keeping software updated helps.
  • Scan for malware: Some malicious programs disguise themselves as normal ones and resist closing.
  • Check official Microsoft support: Visit Microsoft Support for more help.

Conclusion

Stopping programs that run in the background on Windows 11 can improve system speed and fix errors. Starting with simple methods like closing from the taskbar and moving to Task Manager or Settings ensures you only take necessary steps.

Disabling startup programs and background permissions helps prevent unwanted apps from running automatically. For advanced users, system tools like msconfig and Command Prompt offer more control.

By following these steps carefully, you can maintain a cleaner, faster Windows 11 experience. Always be cautious when ending tasks or disabling services to avoid affecting important system functions.

Leave a Reply