How to Check Which Programs Are Running on a Computer

1). Minimize any open programs or applications so that you are looking at your Windows desktop.
2

Open the Windows task manager application. This application can be opened in either of these ways: 1. Press the CTRL+ALT+DEL buttons on your keyboard.
2. Use your mouse to right-click on any empty area of the Windows task bar (see graphic), and then select task manager.
The Windows Task Manager dialog box will appear.
3

Select the tab that is labeled "Applications" from the tabs that are along the top of the Windows Task Manager window (see graphic).
4). Look at the list of applications and programs listed under the "Applications" tab. These are the programs that are currently running on your computer.
5). Use the three buttons at the bottom of Task Manager to end any program (called Tasks), switch to another program, or start a new process.