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

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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.

Google's Hidden Speed Test: Check Your Internet Speed in Seconds!

Google's Hidden Speed Test: Check Your Internet Speed in Seconds!

Discover the quick and easy way to test your internet speed with Google's built-in tool.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

December 29, 2024

Ever wondered how fast your internet really is?  

Tired of slow loading times and buffering videos? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Google Search's Speed Test.

Google Search has a hidden gem that lets you test your internet speed in the blink of an eye, and it's probably already at your fingertips! 

Google's built-in speed test is a simple yet effective way to measure your internet speed directly from your search bar. 

It's important to keep tabs on your internet speed because a slow connection can disrupt your online activities, from streaming movies to attending video conferences. 

By regularly testing your speed, you can identify potential issues, troubleshoot problems, and ensure you're getting the speed you're paying for.

Test Your Internet Speed

How fast is your Internet speed?  5 meg? 20 meg? 100 meg?

Are you really getting the speed you are promised (and paying for) by your ISP?

A quick way to find out is to use www.SpeedTest.net

Click the Begin Test button

After download and upload tests are performed, your results will be displayed.  You can redo the test a few times to ensure you get consistent results.  This will show if you are getting close to what you think you should be getting for the service you are buying from your internet provider.

To ensure that you are getting accurate results, be sure to limit other activity on your PC during the testing, for example a virus scan, as well as internet activity on other devices on your home or office network, for example an Apple TV device streaming Netflix.

SpeedTest is also available as a mobile app for your iPhone and Android devices.  This is a good tool if you need to test the speed of your smart phone for your carrier's speed or a WiFi.

Finally, try a few other sites from time to time to validate your results:

• ATT
• Comcast
• Verizon

Enjoy!

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