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Troubleshooting
5 MIN READ
Apr 19, 2026

PowerShell Get-Process Command Explained

Inspect running processes: default properties, filtering, modules, and pairing with Stop-Process and Get-Counter.

Get-Process returns rich objects for local processes. Without parameters it lists visible processes with Id, CPU, WS (working set), and SI (session id). Target by name with -Name, by id with -Id, or pipe into Where-Object for complex filters. -IncludeUserName needs elevation. Pair with Stop-Process to terminate, and Select-Object to trim columns for logs.

PropertyMeaningTip
CPUProcessor seconds on all threadsCompare over time, not single snapshots
WSWorking set RAMNot identical to Task Manager private bytes
PathBinary path (when available)May require admin for some processes

Related

Get-Service, PowerShell networking, CMD vs PowerShell, What PowerShell is for

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.How do I list processes sorted by working set?

Pipe Get-Process to Sort-Object WS -Descending or use Select-Object to pick columns before sorting.

Q.Why does Get-Process show multiple rows for the same name?

Each row is a separate process instance—distinguish with Id or Path.

Q.How can I stop a hung process safely?

Try Stop-Process -Id without -Force first for a normal exit; add -Force only when the process ignores shutdown.

Q.What is the difference between CPU and WS?

CPU accumulates processor time; WS reflects resident memory—both answer different capacity questions.

Q.How do I get command-line arguments for a process?

Use Get-CimInstance Win32_Process or WMI—Get-Process does not expose full argv for all processes.

Q.Does Get-Process work on remote machines?

Not by default—use Invoke-Command with PowerShell remoting or CIM sessions for remote queries.

Q.Why is Path empty for some processes?

Protected or elevated processes may hide paths unless you run elevated PowerShell.

Q.How can I watch CPU for a process over time?

Combine Get-Process in a loop, or use Get-Counter with \Process(*)\% Processor Time for sampling.
TOPICS & TAGS
Get-ProcessPowerShellStop-ProcessWindows processesCPU memory