Microsoft Brings Speed Test Feature To Windows 11 But At What Cost

Microsoft has made its highly anticipated speed test feature available in the latest Insider Preview build of Windows 11, allowing users to gauge their internet connection directly from the taskbar. The new feature, which was first reported last year, appears to be a shortcut that opens up Bing and takes users to a miniaturized version of Ookla’s Speedtest.

Upon closer inspection, it seems that this feature is not as native as initially thought, relying on an external website for its functionality. However, the convenience factor remains, especially for those who need to check their internet speed quickly and easily. For instance, if you’re in a game and start experiencing packet loss, right-clicking on your Ethernet icon can take you straight to the speed test.

The feature is now available in Build 26100.7918 and 26200.7918, part of the Release Preview channel, where users who have opted-in to receive these updates can try it out for themselves. However, it’s not yet available to all users, and Microsoft may take some time to roll it out to everyone.

So, why did Microsoft decide to implement a website link in the taskbar instead of creating a native feature? One possibility is that Microsoft wanted to test user reaction before committing to making it a full-fledged part of Windows 11. Another possibility is that Microsoft lacked the resources or expertise to create a fully integrated speed test feature from scratch.

This compromise provides users with a convenient way to check their internet speed while preserving the integrity of its own platform. The release of this feature is part of a larger update, which also includes new emojis, improved backup & restore capabilities, enhanced camera controls for supported devices, and more. System Monitor (Sysmon) is now natively implemented within Windows for greater threat detection and monitoring.

The feature’s availability in the Release Preview channel means that users can experiment with it before wider adoption. For those who want to try it out, Build 26100.7918 and 26200.7918 are currently available. The new feature may not be as native as some users had hoped, but its convenience factor remains.

The inclusion of the speed test feature in Windows 11 is part of a broader effort to provide users with more tools for monitoring their internet connection. With this feature, users can quickly assess their internet speed and take corrective action if necessary. The release of this feature also highlights Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to improve user experience and address common pain points.

For those who want to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the Windows 11 Insider program, it’s essential to check the release notes for the full list of changes. As always, we’ll be monitoring the situation closely and provide updates as more information becomes available.

By incorporating a website link into its taskbar, Microsoft has found a way to balance convenience with platform integrity. While this compromise may not meet the expectations of some users, it remains a valuable tool for those who need to check their internet speed quickly and easily.