Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Windows 11 Adds a One Click Internet Speed Test in the Taskbar

Windows 11 Adds a One Click Internet Speed Test in the Taskbar

Windows 11 now includes a built-in shortcut that lets you check your internet speed directly from the taskbar. It is a small change that saves time when troubleshooting slow connections.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor  
March 4, 2026


Microsoft Windows 11
Slow Wi-Fi can ruin a video call or stall a download at the worst possible moment. 

Most people jump to a browser and search for a speed test, but that takes extra steps when you are already frustrated. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use the New Internet Speed Test in the Taskbar.

Microsoft quietly added a new shortcut in Windows 11 that puts a speed test one click away. 

It is simple, fast, and surprisingly useful for both home users and busy professionals.

Windows 11 Speed Test

Feature Explanation

Windows 11's February 2026 Preview Update, KB5077241, introduces a new taskbar option called Perform speed test, which appears when you right click the network or Wi-Fi icon. 

The same button also appears inside the Wi-Fi panel. 

When clicked, Windows opens your default browser to Bing’s built-in speed test, powered by Ookla’s SpeedTest. 

The test measures ping, download speed, and upload speed.

This feature is part of the optional February 2026 preview update for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. It is rolling out gradually, so not everyone will see it immediately.

What You’ll Gain
  • Faster troubleshooting when your connection feels slow.
  • A consistent way to test network performance without searching online.
  • A simple tool for comparing Wi-Fi vs Ethernet.
  • A built-in option that works on any Windows 11 PC.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Windows 11 Desktop
  1. Click the network or Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar.
  2. Right click the icon and select Perform speed test.
  3. Your default browser opens Bing’s speed test page.
  4. Click Start to measure your ping, download speed, and upload speed.
  5. Rerun the test as needed to compare results.

Right-Click the Network Icon

fig. 1 - Right-Click the Network Icon


Run an Internet Speed Test from Windows

fig. 2 - Run an Internet Speed Test from Windows

iOS / Android
  1. To run a speed test, use www.speedtest.net.
Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Quick access for troubleshooting.
  • No need to search for a third party site.
  • Works with any default browser.
  • Useful for comparing networks in real time.

Cons
  • Not a fully native Windows tool since it opens Bing.
  • Requires an internet connection to run.
  • Rolling out gradually, so availability varies.
  • Limited to basic speed metrics.

Configuration Guide

The feature is enabled automatically when KB5077241 is installed. 

There are no toggles or settings to adjust. 

If the option does not appear, the update may still be rolling out or not yet available for your device.

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Feature Access
  • Available in Windows 11 KB5077241, an optional February 2026 preview update
  • Applies to Windows 11 24H2 (Build 26100.7922) and Windows 11 25H2 (Build 26200.7922)
  • Rollout is gradual, and the feature may not appear immediately

Score

Criterion  |  Score (0–10)  |  Justification

Value 8
Saves time and simplifies troubleshooting for everyday users.

Usability 9
One-click access from the taskbar makes it easy for anyone to use.

Wow Factor 6
Helpful but not groundbreaking since it redirects to Bing.

Total: 23/30  👍 Good
This feature is a practical improvement that removes friction from a common task, similar in spirit to quick settings shortcuts already in Windows.

Key Takeaways

The new speed test shortcut gives Windows 11 users a faster way to diagnose network issues. It is simple, reliable, and available directly from the taskbar. It is rolling out gradually, so some users may need to wait for KB5077241 to appear.

Cool Tip Snapshot
  • Feature Name: Perform speed test
  • Platform(s): Windows 11 Desktop
  • Quick Benefit: One click internet speed testing from the taskbar
  • Access Type: Free, rolling out via optional update KB5077241

Try It Yourself

Right click your network icon and run the new speed test today. 

Share your results, tell us how it helped, and subscribe to the One Cool Tip newsletter. 

Pass this tip along to your team, family, and friends.


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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned technology expert and editor of OneCoolTip.com, transforms complex tech into practical advice for everyday users. His Cool Tips empower readers to stay productive, secure, and one step ahead in the digital world.



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