Although you can often work with apps without issues, they can sometimes freeze or get stuck suddenly for many reasons. For example, a bug after an update can cause an app to become unresponsive. If the program relies on an internet connection but can’t find it, the application may get stuck loading. Also, depending on the task, the action can cause the app to go “Not responding.” Whatever the reason it might be, if the system doesn’t offer a way to close the app, Windows 11 offers several ways to force close an app that’s not responding using a keyboard shortcut, Task Manager, Settings app, Command Prompt, and even PowerShell. This guide will teach you the five best ways to close programs that are not responding on Windows 11.
Close not responding apps on Windows 11
If an application appears frozen or unresponsive, you have multiple ways to close it.
1. Force close unresponsive app with shortcut
To force close an app with a keyboard shortcut on Windows 11, use these steps:
2. Force close unresponsive app with Task Manager
To force quit unresponsive apps from Task Manager, use these steps:
3. Force close unresponsive app with Settings
To close a frozen Microsoft Store app on Windows 11, use these steps:
4. Force close unresponsive app with Command Prompt
To close an unresponsive app from Command Prompt on Windows 11, use these steps:
5. Force close unresponsive app with PowerShell
To force close an app that’s not responding from PowerShell on Windows 11, use these steps:
In the command, change AppName for the application’s name as it appears in the previous step. For example, this command closes Task Manager: taskkill /im Taskmgr.exe /t /f Once you complete the steps, the system should terminate the application.
In the command, change ProcessName for the application’s name as it appears in the previous step. For example, this command closes Task Manager: Stop-Process -Name Taskmgr If none of the above methods seem to work, you may need to restart your computer. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
