The recent November 2025 Update for Windows 11 (Build 26200.7171/26100.7171 and later) addresses a significant issue with the Task Manager not closing properly when users click the Close (X) button. Prior to this update, users faced serious performance degradation due to numerous Task Manager processes running in the background, each consuming valuable RAM and CPU resources.
Our investigations at Windows Latest revealed that this problem emerged after the installation of the October optional update (KB5067036).This update inadvertently led to the creation of multiple hidden instances of the Task Manager (taskmgr.exe), thereby adversely affecting system performance.
Fortunately, the November 2025 update, identified as KB5068861, rectifies this glitch, and our testing confirms that the issue is no longer present in affected systems.
Understanding the Task Manager Glitch
Following the problematic October update, Windows Latest tracked instances where the Task Manager did not terminate as expected after closing. Out of 100 virtual machines tested, 30 displayed this frustrating behavior.
Upon reopening the Task Manager, users would see a new visible instance alongside the previous one, disrupting the typical functionality of displaying a single instance regardless of how many times it is opened or closed.
Through rigorous testing, we found that each hidden Task Manager instance consumed approximately 20-25 MB of RAM and exhibited a negligible CPU usage of about 0 to 1.5%.For users, especially those with less powerful hardware such as 8GB or 16GB RAM systems engaged in heavy workflows, this could yield a noticeable drop in performance.
Investigating the Root Cause of the Ghost Instances
The KB5067036 (October update) was intended to enhance Task Manager functionality, addressing an issue where certain applications were improperly grouped with related processes. As an example, Spotify processes were mistakenly categorized under File Explorer. While Microsoft issued a patch, it inadvertently led to the Task Manager remaining active in the background upon closure.
Microsoft acknowledged our findings, stating, “After installing Windows Updates released on or after October 28, 2025 (KB5067036), you might encounter an issue where closing Task Manager using the Close (X) button does not fully terminate the process… This results in multiple lingering instances of taskmgr.exe, consuming system resources and potentially degrading device performance.”
Although Microsoft indicated that sporadic use of the Task Manager wouldn’t significantly affect performance, they recognized that accumulating numerous instances could indeed slow down other applications. Our tests corroborated this, as opening the Task Manager 500 times resulted in multiple instances, each consuming system resources.
A Confirmed Resolution from Microsoft
In their communications, Microsoft confirmed that the latest November update should effectively resolve any performance issues related to the Task Manager. Users must ensure they are utilizing the November update KB5068861 (OS builds 26200.7171 or 26100.7171).
Post-update, users can expect the Task Manager to close correctly and eliminate ghost processes that previously hampered operational efficiency. Our tests confirmed the fix was prompt and effective once the update was applied.
For those who have yet to install the November update (Build 26200.7171 / 26100.7171) or are hesitating, it’s crucial to verify whether your system is impacted by this Task Manager bug.
You can check by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open the Task Manager. After closing it via the Close (X) button, reopen it and observe the Processes tab. If you notice multiple instances of “Task Manager” increasing with each reopening, it’s a definite indication of the glitch.
If you opt not to install the update, be prepared for the cumbersome task of manually terminating each instance, a process that can be quite inefficient.
Additionally, the November update brings various new features, including an entirely customizable Start menu, enhanced battery indicators, and numerous other fixes and enhancements.
Have you encountered any new issues following the November 2025 Update? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments below.
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