Windows 11 now offers a taskbar shortcut to run an internet speed test: open Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings, or right-click the network icon in the system tray. It launches a test in your default browser; it does not add a continuously visible speed meter to the taskbar.
Where to find the speed test in Windows 11
Microsoft says the shortcut is available from Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings, and from the system tray network icon’s right-click menu. The test opens in your default browser and supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular connections, according to the Windows Insider Program’s February 17, 2026 Release Preview notes.
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- Open Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings from the taskbar, or right-click the network icon in the system tray.
- Select the speed-test option. The exact menu wording may vary.
- When the page opens in your default browser, start the test there.
In its October 5, 2026 how-to, PCWorld reported that the browser page is Bing’s speed test, powered by Ookla. PCWorld’s described flow includes clicking Start on that page; it says the results include ping, download, and upload speeds. Microsoft’s release notes confirm the browser launch and supported connection types, but do not name Bing or Ookla.
What the test does—and what it does not
This is a shortcut for starting an online test, not a live readout of your connection speed. Microsoft’s description says the test measures Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular connections; it does not say that Windows continuously monitors or displays bandwidth in the taskbar.
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A low result is a useful clue, but it does not by itself identify the cause. The test alone cannot establish whether the issue is with your internet provider, router, Wi-Fi conditions, or PC, and the cited sources do not set a universal threshold for what counts as a bad result.
Why the option may be missing
Microsoft introduced the feature in Windows 11 Release Preview builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918, associated with KB5077241 and versions 24H2 and 25H2. The February 17, 2026 announcement marked it as a gradual rollout, so the option was not expected to appear for every eligible device at once.
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Microsoft’s Windows 11 update guidance says feature availability can vary by device and market, and that some features may arrive through updates that are still rolling out. If you do not see the shortcut:
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- Check Windows Update for available updates and install those offered for your device.
- Check the Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings menu and the system tray network icon’s right-click menu.
- If it is still absent, try again later. Its absence alone does not show that your PC is incompatible.
How to narrow down a poor result
Because Microsoft lists both Wi-Fi and Ethernet as supported, comparing a Wi-Fi test with a wired Ethernet test can help distinguish a wireless-condition problem from a broader connection issue. Ethernet testing requires compatible Ethernet hardware; buying a cable is optional, and the taskbar shortcut itself does not require one. A single comparison still does not prove which component is responsible.
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