Microsoft is rolling out a new feature for Windows 11 that lets users check their internet connection speed directly from the taskbar. The feature is currently available to Windows Insider testers in the Release Preview channel and is expected to arrive for all users soon.
🔍 Taskbar Network Speed Test
Right now, Windows 11 users in the Insider program can right-click the network icon in the system tray and launch a built-in internet speed test in their default browser. This lets you quickly measure download and upload speeds over Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or cellular data without needing a third-party website or app.
🆕 Other Features in the Update
Alongside the speed test, Microsoft’s preview update includes several quality-of-life improvements:
- New camera settings: Users can adjust pan and tilt for supported webcams right in Settings.
- New emoji additions: The update brings additional emoji characters to the Windows emoji panel.
- Widget enhancements: A full-page Widget settings menu offers more personalization.
- Desktop enhancements: Users can now set .webp images as wallpapers.
📅 Availability
These new features are currently being tested on Windows 11 Insider Preview builds for versions 24H2 and 25H2 (build numbers 26100 and 26200). Microsoft plans to push them to all users via the next Windows Update soon.
Why this matters:
This built-in speed test is a small but useful addition that brings everyday networking tools directly into Windows 11 — shortening the steps needed to diagnose internet issues. It also signals Microsoft’s ongoing focus on quality-of-life improvements rather than just big headline features.