Identification

• On a Microsoft Windows operating system, a key combination of "Ctrl," "Alt" and "Esc" usually launches the Windows Task Manager. After the window opens, click on the "Processes" tab and a list of processes should appear.
  
  

Significance

• A process appearing in the Windows Task Manager is generally an application or operating system service that is actively running on the computer. This includes such software as text editors and Internet browsers.
  
  

Function

• The function of the list of processes appearing on the "Processes" tab of Windows Task Manager is to provide a way to monitor and manage all of the software running on a Windows operating system.
  
  

Benefits

• Being able to monitor and manage system processes via the Windows Task Manager enables a user to have more control over a computer.
  
  

Considerations

• It is important to understand what a specific process is prior to manipulating it in the Windows Task Manager. It may be a process that the operating system relies on to function properly.