Microsoft has made significant changes to the taskbar in Windows 11, but some users found the functionality to be limited. For example, the ability to pin apps or end tasks directly from the taskbar was missing. However, Microsoft is reintroducing the pin feature in Windows 11’s upcoming 2024 update. The option to close applications directly from the taskbar is already included in Windows 11, but it is somewhat hidden and needs to be enabled.
If you want to unlock the “End task” option on Windows 11’s taskbar, you can right-click on an application icon in the taskbar to end the application directly. By default, this function is deactivated, and you can only close an application normally using the X button in the corner. However, this only closes the window in which the application is open, not the entire program, which can affect system performance. Activating the “End task” option eliminates the need to open the Task Manager to completely terminate a task that is hanging or cannot be closed properly.
To enable the “End task” option, follow these steps:
1. Open the settings on your Windows 11 system.
2. Navigate to System and then For developers.
3. Search for End task and activate it.
Once this setting is enabled, you can simply right-click on an open application in the taskbar to end a task, making it a useful feature for pro users.
In addition to these tips, if you want to explore more obscure Windows features that will blow your mind, you can check out further reading materials. This information was originally published on PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.
Laura, an avid gamer and entertainment enthusiast, has a background in communication science and has been writing about PCs and technology topics for various publications. She has been a permanent editor at the German sister site PC-WELT since May 2024, providing valuable insights and information to tech-savvy readers.
