Windows 11 update causes annoying issue in Task Manager
The latest update for Windows 11 has introduced a rather irritating issue that many users are now facing. Those who have installed update KB5067036, available for both Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2, are experiencing a glitch that causes the Task Manager to run multiple instances, even when attempts are made to close it.
This problem is not just frustrating; it can also disrupt users' workflow significantly. Reports from Windows Latest and journalist Tom Warren from The Verge indicate that computers with this recent patch are encountering this peculiar issue. Essentially, when users attempt to close the Task Manager using the traditional X in the upper right corner, the window disappears while the process continues running in the background.
When users subsequently reopen the Task Manager—either through the direct shortcut (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) or from the security options menu (Ctrl+Alt+Del)—a new instance of the application starts up. This results in multiple entries appearing in the task manager, which can lead to performance degradation and resource management issues.
The exact cause of this bug remains unclear, but speculation suggests that the KB5067036 update is somehow interfering with the functionality of the close button for the Task Manager, allowing it to continue running even after the window has been closed. Notably, this issue appears to exclusively affect the Task Manager and does not extend to other Windows 11 utilities. As of this writing, Microsoft has not officially addressed this peculiar bug.
Current issues with Windows 11's Task Manager
While having multiple instances of Task Manager open is not deemed a critical performance issue, it can still be bothersome. Depending on the workload intensity on a PC, Task Manager may consume varying amounts of resources. Currently, with applications like Slack, Chrome, and Edge open, the Task Manager on my Windows 11 computer is using only 80.6 MB of RAM, and CPU usage remains below 1%. Therefore, it would require several instances to exceed 1 GB of memory consumption.
- 8 GB of RAM vs. 64 GB of RAM: The impact of multiple Task Manager instances can vary significantly based on the system's specifications.
- Frequency of use: Most users typically do not open Task Manager more than once a day.
- Task Manager's resource consumption: While not excessively demanding, it can become a nuisance if multiple instances are running unnecessarily.
It’s essential to note that KB5067036 is an optional update for Windows 11, as it lacks security enhancements. In fact, Microsoft states its purpose is to improve "functionality, performance, and reliability" of the software.
How to temporarily fix the Task Manager issue
If you have installed the update and are experiencing this annoying glitch, there are a couple of temporary solutions to manage the situation. Firstly, you can use the End Task option within Task Manager. Simply right-click on the instances you wish to close and select this option, or click the End Task button located at the top of the window. The drawback of this method is that it requires manual action for each instance.
Alternatively, there’s a more efficient solution for closing all instances at once. To do this:
- Type cmd in the Windows 11 Start menu and run it as an administrator.
- Once the Command Prompt is open, enter the command taskkill /im taskmgr.exe /f to forcefully close all running instances of Task Manager.
This method allows you to clear out all Task Manager processes quickly, alleviating the inconvenience caused by the bug.
Understanding the implications of Windows 11 updates
The introduction of new updates in Windows 11 often comes with various benefits, including enhanced security and improved functionality. However, they can also lead to unexpected bugs, as seen with the recent Task Manager issue. Users should remain aware of potential risks associated with each update, especially when they are optional.
- **Backup important data**: Always back up your files before installing new updates.
- **Research updates**: Look for information on updates before installation to understand their implications.
- **Monitor performance**: After an update, keep an eye on system performance and functionality.
Staying informed about the latest updates and their potential impacts can help users navigate the complexities of system management more effectively.
Future updates and performance considerations
Looking ahead, users should anticipate regular updates from Microsoft aimed at addressing bugs and enhancing overall system performance. The tech giant has a history of responding to user feedback, so it’s likely that a fix for the Task Manager issue will be forthcoming.
In the meantime, adopting best practices for system maintenance can help mitigate the impact of such glitches:
- **Regularly update your system**: Keeping your operating system updated ensures you benefit from the latest fixes and improvements.
- **Utilize system diagnostics**: Regularly check for performance issues using built-in Windows tools.
- **Engage with the community**: Platforms like Reddit or tech forums can provide valuable insights and solutions from other users experiencing similar issues.
In the context of the ongoing developments in Windows 11, staying proactive and informed will ultimately enhance your user experience.
For a more visual representation of managing Task Manager issues, consider watching this informative video:
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