Program is running in task manager but won’t show up on taskbar or in alt + tab

Troubleshooting Application Window Visibility Issues on Windows 11: A Case Study with IESVE

If you’ve experienced a situation where an application appears to be running in Task Manager but does not display on the screen, on the taskbar, or within Alt + Tab, you’re not alone. Such issues can be particularly frustrating, especially when urgent access to the application is required. This article examines a common scenario involving the IESVE software on Windows 11 and offers guidance on potential solutions.

Understanding the Issue

In this specific case, the user reports that while the IESVE program is active—confirmed through Task Manager—it doesn’t present its main window on the desktop. Instead, only a small dialog box is visible. The application isn’t listed on the taskbar, nor can it be cycled through via Alt + Tab. The user mentions that the process appears in Task Manager but the window remains hidden, despite ensuring no external monitors are connected and attempting various troubleshooting steps.

Common Causes and Troubleshooting Steps

1. Application Window Hidden or Off-Screen
   Sometimes, application windows are rendered outside the visible desktop area, especially after disconnecting monitors or changing display configurations. To bring the window back:
2. Use keyboard shortcuts: Select the application’s process (e.g., by clicking its taskbar entry or using Alt + Tab), then press Alt + Space to open the window menu. Try selecting “Move,” then use arrow keys to reposition the window on the screen.

3. Alternatively, press Win + Shift + Left/Right Arrow to move the window between virtual desktops or monitor screens.

4. Application Running Behind Other Windows
   The window might be minimized or hidden behind other windows:

5. Ensure all windows are minimized or closed, then reopen the application.

6. Use Taskbar right-click > Cascade windows or Show windows stacked to organize.

7. Process Running Without a Visible Interface
   The application may be running but with a transparent or hidden window due to a glitch:

8. Try ending the process in Task Manager and restarting the application.

9. Run the program as an administrator to rule out permission issues.

10. Display Settings and Resolution Conflicts
    Changes in display settings or timezone adjustments can sometimes impact application rendering, particularly with apps sensitive to display or regional settings:

11. Reset display resolution to default.
12. Confirm that display scaling isn’t causing the window to render improperly.

5.