How to Add End Task Button in Taskbar in Windows 11

When a program in Windows 11 stops working or freezes, the “End task” option can be a lifesaver. It lets you shut down those unresponsive apps without having to restart your computer. However, if you’re new to the Windows 11 operating system, finding the ‘end task’ option may not be the most straightforward task. This Windows 11 post will show you how to add the End task option in the Windows 11 taskbar.

End Task and Close Window

In Windows 11 version 23H2, they’ve added something new to those handy jump lists – it’s called “End task.” You’ll spot it right alongside the “Close window” option, and at first glance, they may seem pretty similar. But don’t be fooled, because the “End task” feature is actually quite distinct.

Unlike the “Close window,” the “End task” option doesn’t just close a single window – it completely stops the entire app and all the things connected to it (though this could vary depending on the app’s settings). For instance, if you hit “Close window” on Chrome, the app stays active in the background with no open windows. On the other hand, choosing “End task” will completely shut down all the processes related to Chrome.

How to Add End Task Option in Windows 11 Taskbar

Microsoft has designed the “End task” feature primarily with developers in mind, so they’ve decided to keep it turned off by default. If you want to use it, you’ll need to activate Developer Mode first, and it’s important to be aware of this requirement and have a good understanding of it.

Here’s how to show the End task button in Windows 11 taskbar:

1. Open the Windows Settings app. Press the Windows key + I to open it directly.

2. From the left pane, select System and then click on For developers.

System > For developers

3. Here, simply enable the End Task option.

Enable End Task Button on Windows 11 Taskbar

After you’ve followed these steps, you’ll find the feature right in the Taskbar menu. So, if an app ever stops responding, instead of opening the Task Manager, you can simply right-click the app’s icon on the Taskbar and select the “End Task” option to close it.

It’s worth noting that Microsoft has placed the “End Task” feature within the developer settings menu, suggesting that they consider it an option best left turned off by default, with a primary audience of programmers in mind. Developers often find value in having the ability to forcefully close apps they’re working on, especially during the debugging process when apps can freeze.

However, in practice, any app can freeze and require termination. Microsoft’s reluctance to encourage force-quitting likely stems from the risk involved; if you force-quit an app that isn’t frozen, you could potentially lose data or damage files. Nevertheless, when the “End Task” feature becomes more stable and reliable, I plan to enable it and recommend you do the same. Just remember to use it only when your app can’t be closed through normal means.

That’s all. This is how you can enable or add the End task button on the Windows 11 taskbar.

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