Windows 11’s taskbar hides a secret ‘End task’ feature for pros

Microsoft made some huge changes to the taskbar with Windows 11. The functionality of the taskbar felt severely limited to many users, however — for example, you could no longer pin apps or end tasks directly with it.

Good news! Microsoft is reintroducing the pin feature in Windows 11’s big 2024 update. The option to close applications directly from the taskbar is already included in Windows 11. However, you have to enable it first as it is somewhat hidden.

How to unlock End Task option on Windows 11’s taskbar

If you enable the “End task” option, you can right-click on an application icon in the taskbar to end the application directly.

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This function is deactivated by default; you can only close an application normally, using the X button in the corner or by selecting “Close window” when you right-click an application icon in the taskbar. But doing those only closes the window in which the application is open, not the entire program. Depending on the type of application, this can mean differences in the performance of your system.

By activating this option, you do not have to open the Task Manager to completely terminate a task if it hangs or can no longer be closed properly.

The “End task” option is a developer feature. Here’s how to enable it:

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. It’s super useful.

Further reading: 10 obscure Windows features that will blow your mind