Microsoft is adding the ability to launch an internet speed test directly from the Windows 11 taskbar. X (formerly Twitter) user phantomofearth noticed the new feature in a recent preview build available to Windows Insiders via the Dev and Beta channels.
This is a new option in the right-click context menu for the Taskbar's network icon. It is also shown as a button inside the Wi-Fi quick settings panel. This option opens Bing's built-in speed test tool in the user's default browser. For most users, quickly testing download and upload speeds from the Taskbar will be helpful in diagnosing probable connection problems, confirming that they are receiving the speeds promised by their internet service provider, or simply bragging about their internet speed in front of friends and family.
Microsoft hasn't announced when this new tool will be available to everyday users. Interestingly, this update is not tied to Windows 11 version 25H2, the operating system's next major release. Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 version 25H2 will share the same set of options as version 24H2, which means users can expect new updates like the speed test tool to reach both versions once testing is complete.
