We’ve all been there—you’re working on something important, and suddenly your screen looks like a battlefield of open apps. Or maybe one app has frozen, and no matter how many times you click the close button, it won’t go away. If you’re using Windows 11, there are multiple ways to close apps, whether they’re running normally or completely stuck.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to close apps on Windows 11, from the basic click-and-close approach to advanced troubleshooting.
Why Closing Apps Matters
Closing apps isn’t just about decluttering your desktop. It also:
Frees up system resources (CPU & RAM).
Extends battery life on laptops.
Boosts performance when multitasking.
Prevents crashes caused by overloaded memory.
Think of it like cleaning up your kitchen—too many dishes left around, and you’ll run out of counter space.
Method 1: Use the Close Button (The Obvious Way)
Step 1: Locate the App Window
Find the app you want to close.
Step 2: Click the “X”
Go to the top-right corner of the window.
Click the X button.
That’s it—the simplest way to close any app in Windows 11.
Method 2: Use the Taskbar
Step 1: Hover Over the App Icon
Move your mouse over the app icon on the taskbar.
Step 2: Right-Click and Close
Right-click the icon.
Select Close window.
If multiple windows of the app are open, you’ll see the option to close them all.
Method 3: Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Shortcut 1: Alt + F4
Select the app window.
Press Alt + F4.
This instantly closes the app without needing the mouse.
Shortcut 2: Ctrl + W
Works mainly in browsers and file explorer.
Closes the current tab or window.
Keyboard shortcuts are lifesavers when your mouse decides to stop cooperating.
Method 4: Use Task Manager
Sometimes, apps refuse to close the normal way. That’s when Task Manager comes in.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc (shortcut).
Or right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager.
Step 2: Find the App
Scroll through the Processes list until you find the stubborn app.
Step 3: End Task
Select the app.
Click End task (bottom-right corner).
This force-closes the app instantly.
Method 5: Use the Start Menu
Step 1: Open Start Menu
Click the Windows icon on your taskbar.
Step 2: Right-Click the App
Find the app under Pinned apps or All apps, then right-click.
Step 3: Close the App
Select Close window (if currently running).
Method 6: Close Background Apps
Even if you close an app window, some apps continue running in the background.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Step 2: Go to Apps > Installed Apps
Scroll and find the app.
Step 3: Manage Background Activity
Click Advanced options.
Under Background apps permissions, choose Never.
Now the app won’t secretly run after you close it.
Method 7: Close Apps on Touchscreen Devices
If you’re using a tablet or touchscreen laptop:
Step 1: Swipe Down
Place your finger at the top of the app window.
Step 2: Drag to the Bottom
Drag it down to the bottom of the screen until it disappears.
This gesture works like flicking a paper off your desk—it’s gone instantly.
Method 8: Close Apps via Command Prompt (Advanced Users)
If you love typing commands, you can close apps using Command Prompt.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Press Win + R, type
cmd, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Type Taskkill Command
For example, to close Notepad, type:
Here, /IM means “image name” (app name), and /F forces it to close.
Pros of Using Different Methods
Fast & easy – Close button or Alt + F4.
Forceful – Task Manager & Command Prompt.
Convenient – Taskbar & Start Menu.
Touch-friendly – Swipe gesture for tablets.
What to Do if an App Won’t Close at All
Sometimes, an app freezes so badly that even Task Manager doesn’t help. In that case:
Save any important work (if possible).
Restart your PC by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete > Power > Restart.
As a last resort, hold down the power button until the computer shuts off.
Tips to Prevent Apps From Getting Stuck
Keep Windows 11 updated.
Regularly update apps to their latest versions.
Avoid running too many heavy apps at once.
Clear cache and temp files often.
Conclusion
Closing apps on Windows 11 is simple once you know the right methods. From the classic X button to advanced tricks like Task Manager or even Command Prompt, you’ve got plenty of ways to deal with stubborn apps. Whether you’re on a laptop, desktop, or tablet, these steps will keep your system clean, fast, and crash-free.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the fastest way to close apps in Windows 11?
Using the Alt + F4 keyboard shortcut is the quickest method.
Q2: Why do some apps stay open in the background after I close them?
Certain apps (like Skype or Spotify) run background processes for notifications or updates. You can disable this in Settings.
Q3: Can I close multiple apps at once?
Yes, in Task Manager, you can select multiple apps and click End task.
Q4: Will force-closing apps cause data loss?
Yes, if you haven’t saved your work. Always save before force-closing.
Q5: Do I need to close apps to improve performance?
Yes, especially on laptops with limited RAM. Closing apps frees resources and speeds up your PC.