- Direct access to the speed test from the system tray and the Wi-Fi panel.
- Measurement is not native: Opens the Bing widget in your default browser.
- Available on Insider channels (Canary, Dev, and Beta) with recent builds.
- Local alternative: PowerToys with Speedtest CLI plugin for ad-free testing.
Microsoft is testing in Windows 11 a shortcut for Check your internet speed without leaving your desktopThe idea is to reduce the usual steps and that the user does not have to search for third-party pages every time you need to check your connection.
For now, The feature appears in builds of Windows Insider (Canary, Dev and Beta) and runs through the browser, using the Bing widget for measurement. This means that, for now, It is not a native tool embedded in the system, but a very handy shortcut.
Where it appears and how it is activated
Access is integrated at two points in the system: right-click on the network icon from the system tray and in the Wi-Fi quick settings panel. In both cases, you'll see the option labeled "Perform speed test," identified with a speedometer icon.
When you click on that shortcut, Windows opens the default browser and launches the Bing speed testNo need to enter addresses or search for services: The system takes you directly to the measurement to avoid unnecessary steps.
In the network panel, the option can also be displayed as a button next to the details of the active connection, which makes it easy to use when you're switching Wi-Fi or checking network status. It is an approach designed to rapid diagnostics In day to day.
For home or corporate environments, this new feature Streamlines the verification of line peaks, drops, and specific limitations without relying on browser bookmarks.. Although not completely native, centralizes access where it makes the most sense: the system tray.
For home or business environments, this new feature streamlines the verification of line peaks, drops, and limitations without relying on browser bookmarks. Although not completely native, centralizes access where it makes the most sense: the system tray.
What it measures and what it gives you back
The Bing widget provides the essential parameters for a basic diagnosis: latency (ping), download speed and upload speedIn some cases, it also displays the public IP address, which is useful for checking Internet access.
With these metrics you can detect if the problem is capacity (download/upload) or response (ping) and then decide whether to restart your router, change Wi-Fi bands, or contact your carrier. It's a quick reading that resolves most common doubts.
For demanding applications, it is advisable to repeat the test in several locations or times of day, and if possible, using an Ethernet cable. You confirm whether the bottleneck comes from the wireless signal or the line itself.
As a general guideline, 4K video streaming services typically require between 15 and 20 Mb/s sustainedIf the results are lower, you'll notice interruptions or drops in quality, especially if there are more devices competing for bandwidth.
Availability and probable schedule
The function is live for testers on the Canary, Dev, and Beta channels and has been seen in recent builds such as branches 26220.6682 and 26120.6682 (KB5065782). Microsoft has not yet officially documented it, so may change or disappear during the development.
There is no confirmed date for its arrival in the stable version.. From what we've seen on the Insider show, it's unlikely to land in the 25H2 updateIf it consolidates, it would point to a subsequent wave. In any case, the company is evaluating its performance before deciding on its general deployment.
The news was detected by active members of the Insider community, such as phantomofearth in X, through screenshots showing the icon and test option embedded in the Windows 11 network interface.
Beyond testing, some builds in testing also incorporate adjustments to pages of Privacy & Security, a revamped area for linked mobile devices, and a section for background AI tasks, changes that remain subject to iteration.
Local Alternatives: PowerToys + Speedtest CLI
If you prefer to avoid the browser, you can set up a local test with PowerToys and the Speedtest CLI module from Ookla. It's free and allows you to run quick measurements from the PowerToys Run launcher.
- Install PowerToys from Microsoft Store.
- Download the plugin Speedtest CLI from GitHub.
- Extract the contents to "%LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\PowerToys\PowerToys Run\Plugins\».
- Open PowerToys Run and run the plugin with the shortcut spt.
In a few minutes you will have it working and you will be able to measure the network without ads or distractions, ideal for repeatedly checking the line or automating tests on different equipment.
Remember that conditions matter: connect by Ethernet for reference values, close background downloads, and use multiple servers if your tool allows it. This way, you'll get results that are more representative of your actual connection.
With this integration in the system tray and the alternative via PowerToys, Windows 11 covers both quick desktop testing and more controlled local testing.The system function continues to be tested, Its final deployment will depend on feedback. and the performance observed in Insider builds.
I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.
If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.