How to safely test programs using Windows Sandbox

Did you know you can test programs risk-free using Windows Sandbox? This is a somewhat unknown tool for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users, but it can be very useful. In this post, we explain. How to use it to run programs without compromising the operation of your computer.

How to safely test programs using Windows Sandbox

Imagine you want to run a program from a dubious source or install a beta version of software already installed on your computer. Doing this within the main system can generate incompatibility problems or even infect the system with malwareFortunately, it's possible to test programs safely using Windows Sandbox, a tool built into Microsoft's operating system.

In case you didn't know, a Sandbox software is a program that allows create isolated virtual environments Within the main operating system. Within this isolated digital environment, you can safely test programs, open files, or make configuration changes. In other words, "what happens in the sandbox stays in the sandbox" and doesn't affect the main system environment.

The operating system of Microsoft has its own sandbox or litter box, so you can test programs risk-free using Windows Sandbox. We've already explained this in depth in a previous post. How to enable and use Sandbox in Windows 11 or Windows 10But for practical purposes, let's walk through the process of activating it, and then we'll see how to use it to test programs.

How to activate Windows Sandbox

Before you can use this tool, you need to verify that it is available on your version of Windows. Also, confirm that your computer meets the minimum requirements to run virtual environments of this type. Make sure that:

• You have one installed Pro or Enterprise version of Windows 10 or the Pro version of Windows 11. (Not available on Windows Home.)
• The computer must have at least 4 GB of RAM and 1 GB free in the storage unit.
• The Windows Sandbox feature should be activated in the Windows features menu.

If you meet the first two requirements, you can Go to Windows Features to turn on the feature following these steps:

1. Press the Win (Start) + R keys, type the command appwiz.cpl and press Enter.
2. In the next window, go to the Turn Windows features on or off option.
3. Find and select the Windows Sandbox option.
4. Click OK and restart your computer to apply the changes.

Done this, You can now access the tool directly from the Start menuEverything will be ready to test programs safely using Windows Sandbox, a secure virtual environment isolated from the rest of the system. Let's see how to do it.

Test programs safely using Windows Sandbox: step by step

In this technological world, there's nothing more exciting than trying out a new or unfamiliar program. But the excitement can be short-lived if we're not careful, as doing so carries serious risks, such as malware infection, software conflict, or data lossThe best solution is to use an isolated environment like Windows Sandbox, where you can run programs safely.

Once the tool is activated, you just have to Click the Start button and type Windows Sandbox. Next, click on the application to run it and wait for the sandbox to load. You'll see a window with a Windows desktop, as seen in the screenshot above.

Test programs safely

Within this new window, you can access system settings, as well as downloaded files or installed applications. Also, You can open your preferred browser to download files or visit dubious sites.As long as you do this within the Sandbox window, your main system won't be at risk.

It is also possible copy or drag folders and executable files from the main system and paste or drop them into the Sandbox window. Once there, you can open or run them to see what happens, without fear of causing problems if you have viruses or other types of malware. Just install the program as usual and observe its behavior.

So, if the program works correctly and you find it safe, you have the green light to install it on your main system. On the other hand, if the program has problems, simply Close the Windows Sandbox window and everything will disappear without a trace.This simple and effective way allows you to test programs risk-free using Windows Sandbox.

What other uses can you give to Windows Sandbox?

As you can see, Windows Sandbox It is perfect for evaluating software from untrusted sourcesSo, if you've downloaded a program from a dubious forum, you can run it first in a sandbox to safely verify its behavior. If everything goes well, you can install it on your main system without fear. But there's more you can do with this tool.

For example, you can open a folder or file on an external drive to check for viruses. Likewise, if you suspect a driver or update might cause problems, simply test it in the Sandbox before applying it to your main system. You can also experiment with settings, adjusting system options or the Windows registry (Regedit) without fear of damaging your main configuration.

What if your version of Windows doesn't have Sandbox?

What can you do if you have Windows Home, but want to try out programs risk-free using Windows Sandbox? The Home version of Windows doesn't have this feature, but you can always download an alternative to create an isolated spaceTwo effective options are Oracle VirtualBox y Sandboxie plus, two free and open source software programs that allow you to run programs in an isolated environment.

In conclusion, we've seen that testing programs risk-free using Windows Sandbox is very simple and convenient. If your version of Windows has a sandbox, don't hesitate to take advantage of it. run tests without compromising the performance of your computerAnd if not, download one of the available alternatives; but what you should never do is install dubious software on your main system: you'll surely regret it.