The latest update of Windows 11 brought back one key function from Windows 10 that should make life easier for everyone. You can now get to Task Manager by right-clicking on the taskbar. However, it’s just another episode in our love-hate relationship with Microsoft and other big publishers.

My problem with the big software publishers is that an individual or small group of people decide that since they no longer need a particular function or set of features, nobody else needs them. That’s arrogant, but at least Microsoft had the sense to realize they can’t upset the way too many people work.

If you are still on Windows 10, which works well for most of us, you can right-click on an open space on the taskbar at the bottom of your screen and get a menu of functions. Two of them are Task Manager and Taskbar settings. For mouse-oriented users, it’s a quick way to get to the task manager (instead of pushing the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys simultaneously). I use this step all the time when walking clients through a procedure or working remotely on their computers. A lot of other users do, too.

Windows 11 eliminated all the menu items except for Taskbar settings. To me, the biggest fallout from this was the need to use three fingers and two hands to accomplish what we could do with a mouse click. You had to wonder what Microsoft was thinking.

With the update, the right-click on the taskbar now gives you two choices: Taskbar settings and (drumroll, please) Task Manager. If you haven’t installed the update, this is a good reason to do so. You can verify if you have the latest update by simply right-clicking on the taskbar and seeing if two options pop up.

If only one option pops up, you should update Windows 11 immediately. Getting back the Task Manager option is a nice feature, but more important, you’ll get the latest bug fixes, security patches and performance features. You’ll be safer and more efficient.

And while you’re at it, check for updates on all your software and install them for more security and performance. Then, make it a habit to do this monthly or activate automatic updates.

If you have any questions about updates, call us – 973-433-6646 – or email us.