Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft that promises faster performance, improved security, and a sleeker user interface. However, like any software, it is not without its flaws. One issue that some Windows 11 users have reported is that the taskbar does not display the Task Manager icon. This can be frustrating for users who rely on Task Manager to monitor and manage their system’s performance. If you’re experiencing this problem, don’t worry. In this troubleshooting guide, we’ll show you how to fix the taskbar not showing Task Manager icon in Windows 11. So, let’s dive in and get your Task Manager icon back on the taskbar!

The taskbar is an essential component of the Windows operating system, providing quick access to frequently used applications and system utilities. One of the most crucial utilities accessible via the taskbar is the Task Manager, which allows users to monitor and manage running processes, check system performance, and terminate unresponsive programs. However, some users may encounter issues where the Task Manager icon is missing from the taskbar, making it difficult to access this critical tool. In this troubleshooting guide, we’ll go over a few solutions to fix this problem on Windows 11.

Step 1: Check Taskbar Settings

The first step in resolving the taskbar not displaying Task Manager icon issue is to check the taskbar settings. Right-click on the taskbar and select Taskbar settings to open the Taskbar Settings window. Under the Taskbar behaviors section, ensure that the Task Manager option is set to On.

Step 2: Restart Windows Explorer

If the Task Manager option is already enabled, try restarting Windows Explorer. Right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager from the context menu. In the Task Manager window, find Windows Explorer under the Processes tab and select it. Click on the Restart button located in the bottom-right corner of the window.

Step 3: Run a System File Checker Scan

If restarting Windows Explorer doesn’t fix the problem, the next step is to run a System File Checker (SFC) scan. This scan checks for and repairs any corrupted system files that may be causing the problem.

Troubleshooting Guide: Taskbar Not Displaying Task Manager Icon in Windows 11

To run an SFC scan, open the Command Prompt as an administrator by pressing the Win + X keys and selecting Command Prompt (Admin) from the menu. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter. The scan may take some time to complete, so be patient.

Step 4: Check Group Policy Settings

If the SFC scan doesn’t fix the problem, group policy settings may be causing the issue. To check the Group Policy settings, press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box. Type gpedit.msc in the box and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.

In the Editor window, navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar. Locate the Remove Task Manager policy and ensure that it is set to Not Configured.

Step 5: Run a Virus Scan

In some cases, a virus or malware infection may be preventing the Task Manager icon from appearing on the taskbar. Run a full system scan with your preferred antivirus software to check for any malicious files or programs that may be interfering with Task Manager.

If you’ve followed the above steps and the Task Manager icon still doesn’t appear on the taskbar, there may be a more significant issue with your Windows installation. In this case, it may be necessary to reinstall Windows or seek assistance from a professional. However, in most cases, one of the above solutions should resolve the taskbar not displaying Task Manager icon problem in Windows 11.

In conclusion, the Task Manager is an essential tool in Windows 11 that helps you manage your system’s performance and troubleshoot issues. However, if your taskbar is not displaying the Task Manager icon, it can be frustrating and hinder your ability to access this important tool. We hope this guide has been helpful in resolving this issue and getting you back on track. Remember to try each solution method carefully and check if the Task Manager icon has reappeared after each step. If you have any other suggestions or fixes that have worked for you, please share them in the comments below. With these troubleshooting tips, you can keep your system running smoothly and efficiently.