Changing an app’s priority in Windows 10 can help you manage your system’s resources more effectively, especially if you’re running multiple applications. By adjusting the priority, you can allocate more processing power to specific apps, making them run faster and more efficiently. Here’s a quick guide: open Task Manager, right-click the app, select "Go to details," right-click the app again in the Details tab, and change the priority. Simple as that!
How to Change App Priority in Windows 10
Changing an app’s priority in Windows 10 determines how much of your computer’s resources that app gets. Follow these steps to ensure the app you need the most gets the attention it deserves.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
This keyboard shortcut is a quick way to bring up Task Manager without having to navigate through multiple menus. It’s your first step to managing the app priorities.
Step 2: Find the App
Locate the app you want to change in the Processes tab.
The Processes tab lists all active applications and background processes. It’s like a backstage pass to see everything running on your computer.
Step 3: Go to Details
Right-click the app and select "Go to details."
This action will shift your view to the Details tab, where you can see more specific information about the process.
Step 4: Change Priority
Right-click the app again in the Details tab and hover over "Set priority." Choose your desired priority level.
Options range from Low to Realtime, giving you various levels to choose from based on how much of your computer’s resources you want to allocate to the app.
Step 5: Confirm Changes
You’ll be prompted with a warning. Click "Change priority" to confirm.
This step ensures that you really want to change the priority level, preventing accidental adjustments.
After completing these steps, the app will get the specified amount of your computer’s processing power. You’ll notice performance changes, especially if you set the priority to High or Realtime.
Tips for Changing App Priority in Windows 10
- Know the Priority Levels: Understand the difference between Low, Below Normal, Normal, Above Normal, High, and Realtime.
- Use with Caution: Changing priorities can affect system stability. Don’t set too many processes to High or Realtime.
- Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on how changing priorities affects your computer’s performance.
- Use for Resource-Intensive Apps: Prioritize apps that need more CPU power, like video editing software or games.
- Revert if Needed: If you experience instability, revert the priority changes to Normal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is app priority?
App priority determines how much of your computer’s CPU resources an app gets, influencing its performance.
Can changing app priority harm my computer?
While it won’t harm your computer permanently, setting multiple processes to High or Realtime could cause instability.
How do I know which apps to change the priority for?
Typically, resource-intensive apps like games or editing software benefit most from priority changes.
What happens if I set an app to Realtime?
Setting an app to Realtime gives it the highest priority, which can severely affect other running processes.
Can I change priority for system processes?
Yes, but it’s not recommended as it can lead to system instability or crashes.
Summary
- Open Task Manager with Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Locate the app in the Processes tab.
- Right-click the app and select "Go to details."
- Right-click the app in the Details tab and choose "Set priority."
- Confirm the changes.
Conclusion
Changing app priority in Windows 10 is a powerful way to optimize your computer’s performance. By giving key apps more processing power, you can make them run smoother and more efficiently. However, it’s important to use this feature wisely to maintain system stability. Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Experiment with different priority levels, see what works best for your needs, and always be prepared to revert changes if something goes awry.
If you’re interested in fine-tuning your computer further, consider looking into other Task Manager features or exploring third-party system optimization tools. Windows 10 has a wealth of settings that let you take control of your system like never before. Happy computing!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.