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Microsoft is bringing a built-in network speed test to Windows 11

Emma Roth

created: Feb. 18, 2026, 6:09 p.m. | updated: Feb. 19, 2026, 10:56 a.m.

Microsoft is working on a bunch of new features for Windows 11, including a new network speed test that you can access from your taskbar. The tool is bundled in an update rolling out to Windows 11 Insiders in the Release Preview Channel, allowing you to right-click the network icon in the system tray to access a speed test option that opens in your default browser. Microsoft first started testing this feature last year, and it could offer a convenient alternative to checking your connection speed by navigating to third-party websites. Microsoft is adding new emoji to Windows 11, too, a full-page Widget settings menu, and the ability to set .webp files as your desktop background. It’s rolling out now to Windows 11 versions 24H2 (Build 26100) and 25H2 (Build 26200).

4 days, 12 hours ago: The Verge