List of Task Manager Required Tasks for XP

• The Windows XP Task Manager shows all currently running processes on the computer. Processes come from the operating system and all other running programs. Typically, more processes run on Windows XP than are required. Windows XP only requires a small number of tasks in order to run properly. Ending these specific tasks causes Windows XP to stop working until you restart. Any other tasks listed easily end without any problems in XP.

Taskmgr.exe

• This process runs Task Manager. Though it's not exactly essential to Windows XP, you cannot view other running tasks without taskmgr.exe. As soon as you close Task Manager, the task removes from the process list and no longer uses any system resource

Explorer.exe

• Explorer allows the user to find and open files and folders, view Windows menus and navigate within Windows XP. Explorer.exe allows a user to view anything available on the computer except the desktop background. If you end explorer.exe, all icons, task bars and open windows disappear, leaving only the desktop background. Manually restart the computer to get explorer.exe back.

SVCHost.exe

• SVCHost is a Windows Service Host application. The Windows operating system requires this program for files to run correctly. Depending on applications open, more than one SVCHost may show listed. Windows XP only requires one, but it is almost impossible to tell which process belongs to which programs.

Spoolsv.exe

• If you have a printer or fax installed, Windows XP requires spoolsv.exe in order to send documents to the printer or fax. This is not required if you do not print or fax documents, but is started by Windows XP by default.

Services.exe

• This process controls how Windows XP starts, stops and interacts with system services. For Windows XP to operate correctly, leave this service process running.

Smss.exe

• SMSS, which is the Session Manager SubSystem, allows Windows XP to manage user sessions. Without SMSS, users cannot log on and off of Windows XP systems.

System Idle Process

• Though it may not seem important, the System Idle Process keeps a constant total of the amount time the processor is not in use. Windows XP cannot operate without this process.

Lsass.exe

• Lsass is the Local Security Authentication Server, which is not to be confused with the MyDoom virus which uses a similar process title. Lsass verifies and authenticates users who log on to Windows XP.

Winlogon.exe

• Winlogon controls the user logon box which appears when you start Windows XP. Without winlogon, you cannot enter a username or password, effectively locking down Windows XP.

Csrss.exe

• The Client Server Runtime SubSystem allows applications requiring a Win32 API to communicate with the Windows XP system kernel in order to execute the API. Without this, many Windows applications cannot be started.