Windows Task Manager Won’t Open? 2 Fixes to Try

When your computer starts lagging or an app freezes, Task Manager is usually the first tool you reach for. But what if it doesn’t open at all? You press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, or right-click the taskbar, and… nothing. No error, no window. Just silence.

If your Windows Task Manager won’t open, don’t panic. Here are two reliable fixes that often solve the problem fast.

Fix #1: Run System File Checker (SFC) to Repair Corrupt Files

Corrupted system files can block essential tools like Task Manager from running. The built-in System File Checker scans and repairs them.

Here’s how to run it:

1. Click Start, type cmd.
2. Right-click Command Prompt, choose Run as administrator.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type: sfc /scannow
4. Press Enter.

Let the scan complete—it can take several minutes. If it finds and fixes issues, try opening Task Manager again.

Fix #2: Check Group Policy Settings (Windows Pro & Up)

If you’re using Windows 10/11 Pro, a group policy setting may be disabling Task Manager.

To check:

1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, hit Enter.
2. Navigate to: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Ctrl+Alt+Del Options
3. Double-click Remove Task Manager.
4. If it’s set to Enabled, change it to Disabled or Not Configured.
5. Click Apply > OK.

Restart your PC and try launching Task Manager again.

Still Not Working?

If neither fix works, malware could be interfering, or a deeper system issue might be in play. Try running a full antivirus scan or creating a new user account to test Task Manager there.

Wrap-Up

Task Manager refusing to open is frustrating, but in most cases, the issue can be fixed with just a few steps. Whether it’s repairing corrupt files or changing a group policy setting, you’ve now got two solid ways to bring Task Manager back to life.

Have questions or need more help? Drop a comment below—I’m here to help.