Windows 11 Gets a Built-In Speed Test — Here’s How to Use It

Windows 11 is about to make checking your internet speed a whole lot easier. Microsoft is rolling out a new built-in speed test feature that lets you measure your connection right from the taskbar—no need to visit a third-party website or install extra software.

The feature appears in Quick Settings under Wi-Fi or Cellular, and you can also access it by right-clicking the network icon in the system tray. When you run the test, Windows opens your default browser and starts the speed test there. It’s a simple setup, though it’s not yet a fully native panel inside the Settings app.

Microsoft says the goal is to help users quickly check performance and troubleshoot network problems. The test supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and cellular connections, making it useful whether you’re on a wired desktop, a laptop at home, or a mobile device on the go.

There’s no official release date for when this will be available to all Windows 11 users outside the Insider program, and it’s unclear if the rollout will be immediate or phased.

Why This Matters

The biggest advantage is convenience. If your video call starts freezing or your stream keeps buffering, you can run a quick speed check without interrupting your workflow. This makes it easier to answer the first question: Is it my internet, or is it the app?

Works Across All Connection Types

Many people switch between networks throughout the day—Wi-Fi at home, Ethernet at the office, cellular on the road. Having the same built-in test available across all these connection types gives you a consistent baseline for comparing performance.

It also helps you pinpoint the problem. If Wi-Fi speeds are low but Ethernet is fine, the issue is likely local. If both are slow, it’s time to look upstream to your internet service provider.

How to Use It When It Arrives

Once the feature is available on your PC, use it as a quick comparison tool. Run a test on Wi-Fi, then try Ethernet if possible, or compare Wi-Fi to cellular on a supported device. Big differences between results will point you toward the connection type that needs attention.

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