Windows 11 is about to get a faster way to check your internet speed—no third-party apps or browser shortcuts required. Starting with the newest preview builds (26100.7918 and 26200.7918), users can now trigger a speed test straight from the taskbar network icon, bypassing the usual detour to a browser. The feature, which routes tests through Bing’s infrastructure, supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and cellular connections, making it a one-click solution for diagnosing slowdowns or verifying ISP claims.

This isn’t just a gimmick. The change reflects a broader push to streamline common tasks in Windows 11, particularly for users who frequently troubleshoot connectivity. While dedicated tools like Ookla’s Speedtest already dominate the market, the integration reduces friction for casual checks—ideal for new setups, router adjustments, or when streaming buffers unexpectedly.

The update also introduces finer control over supported cameras in Settings, allowing pan-and-tilt adjustments for devices that support it. Other refinements include

Windows 11 Gets Built-In Speed Test—And Other Under-the-Hood Improvements
  • Emoji refresh: A redesigned set of emojis, including updated designs for common symbols.
  • Cloud PC recovery: Enhanced restore options for enterprise and cloud-based Windows deployments.
  • .webp support: Ability to use WebP images as desktop backgrounds, reducing file sizes for high-res wallpapers.
  • Docking fix: Resolved an irritating issue where laptops with closed lids (using docking stations) would fail to resume from sleep without manual intervention.

These changes may not sound revolutionary, but they address real-world frustrations—like the need to lift a laptop lid to wake it from sleep, or the hassle of manually locating speed tests during tech support calls. For power users, the camera controls and cloud recovery tools add practical utility, while the speed test caters to a broader audience.

The update is already live for Windows Insiders and will roll out to the general public in the coming weeks, likely bundled with the next security patch before the end of February. While Windows 11’s reputation for polish has waned in recent years, these incremental improvements suggest Microsoft is still listening—even if the fixes are small, they often matter most to daily users.