Step-by-Step Guide to Add End Task Option to Taskbar in Windows 11

If you’re facing issues with a frozen application or a glitchy game, the Task Manager can be a lifesaver. However, on Windows 11, using the Task Manager isn’t always necessary. Many users might not realize that you can conveniently force-close problematic apps directly from the taskbar by enabling the “End Task” feature, streamlining the troubleshooting process.

Enabling End Task on the Taskbar via Windows Settings

To start, access the Windows Settings by pressing Win + I. From there, select System from the menu on the left.

Next, click on For developers, which will lead you to the developer settings for Windows 11, offering various options to explore. Turn on the End Task switch to integrate this feature into your taskbar.

Now, when you right-click on any app in the taskbar, you will notice the End task option available to quickly terminate the selected application.

Adding End Task to the Taskbar Using the Windows Registry

You can also activate the End Task feature directly from the Windows Registry.

Begin by opening the Run dialog with Win + R. Input regedit in the box and click OK to launch the Registry Editor (you can use other methods to access it as well).

Next, navigate to the following path:

You should see a TaskbarEndTask entry on the right-hand side. Right-click on TaskbarEndTask, choose Modify, and change the Value data from 0 to 1 in the new window.

Confirm by clicking OK, and voilà! You will now find the End task option when you right-click on any running application in the taskbar.

If the TaskbarDeveloperSettings key is not visible under the Advanced key in regedit, right-click on Advanced, then select New -> Key.

Name the new key TaskbarDeveloperSettings. After that, create a new 32-bit value in this key called TaskbarEndTask. To do this, right-click within the newly created key and choose to add a new item.

Select New followed by DWORD (32-bit) Value. Label this new entry TaskbarEndTask. Then, right-click it, select Modify, and update the Value data from 0 to 1.

This often-overlooked feature in Windows 11 is quite useful. Occasionally, the Task Manager may not function properly or may be restricted by an administrator. These methods will help you restore the Task Manager and enable smooth usage once again.

Image credit: All images by Samarveer Singh

Source