Windows 11 Speed Test: How to Use the New Taskbar Tool

Microsoft is testing a built-in network speed test for Windows 11. Learn how to access this tool to check your Wi-Fi or Ethernet performance instantly.

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Hook & Who This Is For (Intro)

When your internet connection feels sluggish during a video call or a download, the standard troubleshooting step is to open a web browser and search for a speed test site ^[2][7][11]. This process adds unnecessary friction when you are already dealing with the frustration of a potential network issue ^[2][14]. Microsoft is now testing a way to bypass these manual steps by integrating a network speed test directly into the Windows 11 taskbar ^[2][3][6].

This article covers how to find and use this new built-in tool to measure Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular performance ^[2][14]. It explains the current integration with the Bing search engine and what metrics, such as latency and upload speeds, the tool provides ^[2][4][11]. This guide does not cover third-party standalone applications or local network (LAN) benchmarking tools.

Who This Is For

• Windows 11 Insiders: Users currently enrolled in the Release Preview Channel (specifically builds 26100.7918 or 26200.7918) ^[2][8][11].
• Troubleshooters: Those who frequently need to verify if they are receiving the speeds promised by their Internet Service Provider (ISP) ^[2][7].
• Productivity Users: Individuals looking for a faster way to trigger connection checks without leaving their active workflow ^[11][14].

Who Can Skip This

• Windows 10 Users: This feature is currently exclusive to Windows 11 development cycles ^[2][12].
• Stable Build Users: If you are not on an Insider Preview build, this feature is likely not yet visible on your system, though it is expected to reach general availability in future updates ^[4][5][9].

TL;DR / What This Means for You

• Integrated Speed Testing: Microsoft is introducing a built-in network speed test accessible directly from the Windows 11 taskbar ^[2][8]. The tool allows users to measure performance for Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular connections without navigating deep into settings ^[2][5].
• Browser-Based Execution: The feature acts as a shortcut that opens the default web browser to a Bing-powered interface using Ookla’s Speedtest technology ^[5][6]. This allows for quick troubleshooting of network issues directly from the system tray or Quick Settings ^[2][8].
• Gradual Rollout: Currently, the feature is available in specific Windows Insider builds, including Canary (Build 29531.1000) and Release Preview (Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918) ^[1][2][4].
• Expected Release: Industry analysts expect the feature to reach the general public as part of an optional update toward the end of February 2026 ^[13].
• Risk Warning: Accessing this feature early via the Canary Channel involves significant risks, as these builds are often unstable ^[1]. Furthermore, moving to the Canary Channel requires a clean installation of Windows 11 if a user later decides to return to a stable, lower build number ^[1][4].

Key Sources (Quick Links)

• Announcing New Optional Windows 11 Insider Preview Build for Canary Channel 2... ^[1]
• Microsoft is adding an internet speed test right into the Windows 11 taskbar,... ^[3]
• This new Windows 11 taskbar tool lets you test your internet speed in seconds... ^[4]

Background / Basics

Monitoring internet performance is a standard practice for troubleshooting connectivity issues or verifying if a service provider is delivering advertised speeds ^[2][3]. Traditionally, Windows users had to manually open a web browser and navigate to third-party testing sites like Ookla’s Speedtest or Fast.com to gather this data ^[2][14].

Microsoft is now integrating this functionality directly into the Windows 11 interface to reduce friction for users ^[14]. This feature allows for a quick assessment of connection health without requiring external software or manual URL entry ^[2][11].

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Key Technical Concepts

To understand how this new tool operates, it is helpful to define the three primary metrics it measures:

• Download Speed: The rate at which data travels from the internet to the local PC ^[2][3].
• Upload Speed: The rate at which data is sent from the local PC to the internet ^[2][3].
• Latency (Ping): The time it takes for a signal to travel to a server and back, measured in milliseconds ^[2][3]. High latency often causes "lag" during gaming or video calls ^[13].

How the Integration Works

While described as a "built-in" feature, the current implementation in Windows 11 is primarily a functional shortcut ^[7][13]. Instead of running the test entirely within the Taskbar UI, the system triggers a specialized page on the Bing search site ^[2][11].

Feature	Implementation Detail
Backend Provider	Powered by Ookla technology via Bing [5][13][15]
Connection Types	Supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular data [5][11][14]
Access Points	Network icon context menu and Quick Settings [3][11][13]
Execution	Launches in the user's default web browser [11][14]

Availability and Testing Status

This tool is currently not available to the general public. It is being tested within the Windows Insider Program, specifically in the Release Preview Channel ^[2][6]. Reports indicate it is bundled with Windows 11 builds 26100.7918 (24H2) and 26200.7918 (25H2) ^[5][11][13].

Industry analysts suggest that because the feature has reached the Release Preview stage, a broader rollout to all Windows 11 users may occur in the coming weeks or months ^[2][7][12]. However, Microsoft typically employs a "gradual rollout" strategy, meaning some users may receive the update before others ^[3][12].

Problem Explanation (What's Going On?)

Microsoft is currently integrating a native network speed test directly into the Windows 11 taskbar ^[3]. Historically, users have had to rely on third-party websites or external applications to verify their connection performance. This new feature aims to simplify that process by placing diagnostic tools within the existing user interface ^[3].

The tool is accessible through two primary methods: the Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings and the system tray ^[3]. By right-clicking the network icon, users can initiate a test that measures the performance of Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular connections ^[3]. Once started, the speed test typically opens and displays results within the system's default web browser ^[3].

Current Availability and Rollout

This feature is not yet available to all Windows 11 users. It is currently being tested in specific development environments, including:

• Release Preview Channel: Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918 ^[3].
• Gradual Rollout: The feature is delivered in phases, meaning availability varies by device even if the correct build is installed ^[3].

Because this is part of the Windows Insider Program, the experience may be unstable or subject to change ^[2]. Features tested in these channels, especially the Canary Channel, represent early platform changes and are not always guaranteed to reach the general public in their current form ^[2].

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Impact on the User Experience

The practical impact is a reduction in the steps required to troubleshoot connectivity issues. However, because these updates are often tied to specific "active development" builds like Build 29531.1000, users may face technical limitations ^[2][4]. For instance, moving to these newer builds is often a one-way path; switching back to a stable version of Windows 11 typically requires a clean installation ^[1][2].

Note: Some features in active development may not be fully localized in all languages and may temporarily disappear during platform transitions before returning in later updates ^[2][4].

Root Causes / Analysis (Why Is This Happening?)

The recent updates to Windows 11 across the Canary and Release Preview channels are driven by a combination of core platform transitions and targeted performance refinements. Microsoft frequently adjusts the underlying code to improve system responsiveness and fix long-standing interaction bugs.

The following factors explain the current changes and "stealth" optimizations appearing in recent builds:

Confirmed Factors

• Display Performance Tuning: Microsoft has confirmed display-related performance improvements specifically designed to reduce PC resume-from-sleep time ^[2]. These optimizations are particularly effective on heavily loaded systems where hardware initialization might typically lag ^[2].

• Taskbar and File Explorer Logic Fixes: Technical adjustments were made to how the taskbar handles user inputs. Specifically, developers fixed an issue where holding Shift and clicking or middle-clicking File Explorer would incorrectly open an existing instance rather than a new one ^[2]. Reliability improvements were also applied to the Network page and visual glitches occurring when the taskbar is set to autohide ^[2].

Active Development Platform Shifts: Builds in the Canary Channel, such as version 29531.1000, involve major platform changes as the OS moves to a new active development cycle ^[3]. These "early-cycle" changes are often undocumented and represent the latest structural modifications to the Windows core ^[3].

Docking Station Power Management: Improvements have been implemented for laptop users who utilize docking stations with the lid closed. The system now has improved reliability when resuming from sleep upon connecting to AC power, eliminating the previous requirement to open the laptop lid to trigger a wake-up ^[2].

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Hypotheses and Speculative Elements

• Staged Feature Rollouts: It is likely that many "secret" features are hidden behind Control Feature Rollout (CFR) technology ^[3]. This allows Microsoft to activate features for a small subset of Insiders to monitor feedback before a wider release, which often explains why some users see new speed-test features while others do not ^[3].

• Experimental Concept Testing: Industry patterns suggest that some interface changes in the Canary Channel are purely conceptual. These features may be removed or replaced entirely based on feedback and may never transition to the general public version of Windows 11 ^[3].

• Unannounced Localization Synchronization: While not always detailed in patch notes, Microsoft appears to be finalizing localization strings for new features in the background. Official documentation notes that many features in active development are not yet fully localized, suggesting that hidden UI elements may be awaiting final language support ^[1][3].

Warning: Because Canary builds represent early development stages, they can be highly unstable and may lack complete documentation ^[3]. Users should expect that features currently being tested may change significantly or be removed without notice ^[3].

Change Type	Status	Primary Impact
Resume-from-Sleep	Confirmed	Faster wake times on heavy loads [2]
Taskbar Interactions	Confirmed	Improved File Explorer instance handling [2]
Canary Platform Shifts	Confirmed	Core system structural updates [3]
CFR Features	Likely	Limited access to experimental tools [3]

Evidence & Reality Check

Official documentation and independent reports confirm the integration of a network diagnostic tool within recent Windows 11 development builds. Microsoft officially announced the feature as part of Windows 11 Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918, which were released to the Release Preview Channel on February 17, 2026 ^[1][10]. Minor underlying improvements were further documented in builds 26100.7921 and 26200.7921 shortly thereafter ^[10].

Technical analysis from multiple sources verifies the specific placement and functionality of this utility. The feature is located within the Taskbar & System Tray and can be accessed via the Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings or by right-clicking the network icon ^[1][6][12]. Both official logs and media reports confirm that the tool is designed to measure performance across Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular connections ^[1][6].

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While the entry point is integrated into the operating system, the testing mechanism relies on external web infrastructure. Reputable tech media reports indicate that the taskbar button serves as a link to Ookla's Speedtest hosted via Bing ^[12]. Official release notes corroborate this, stating that the speed test results open directly in the user’s default browser ^[1][6][12].

Current data regarding the rollout suggests a phased approach:

Feature Aspect	Status	Source
Availability	Gradual rollout to Release Preview Insiders	[1][10]
Connectivity Types	Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Cellular	[1][6]
Interface	Opens in default web browser	[1][12]
Service Provider	Integrated with Bing (Ookla)	[12]

Industry analysts suggest that because this feature has reached the Release Preview Channel, it may potentially appear in a general public update soon, though Microsoft has not confirmed a specific date for broad availability ^[1][4]. For users in the Canary Channel, the feature set can be more volatile, and some experiences may be removed or replaced before they ever reach a final release ^[4][9].

Self-Check / Diagnosis

Because this feature is being released as a gradual rollout, not every device on a compatible build will see it immediately ^[4][9]. Availability depends on your specific Windows Insider channel and build number.

Follow these steps to verify if the new network speed test is active on your system:

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1. Verify your Windows build number

The network speed test is currently documented for Windows 11 Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918 in the Release Preview Channel ^[3][4][9].

• Press the Windows Key + R on your keyboard.
• Type winver into the box and press Enter ^[5].
• Check the version and build number. It should match the 26000 series mentioned above or higher ^[4][9].

2. Check the System Tray

The most direct way to find the tool is through your taskbar icons.

• Locate the Network icon (Wi-Fi or Ethernet symbol) in the lower-right corner of your screen ^[3][4].
• Right-click the icon to open the context menu.
• Look for an option labeled "Network Speed Test" or similar ^[3][7].

3. Inspect Quick Settings

If the right-click menu does not show the option, it may be located within the Quick Settings panel.

• Click on the Network, Volume, or Battery icons to open the Quick Settings flyout ^[3].
• Navigate to either the Wi-Fi or Cellular settings section ^[3][4].
• A link or button for the built-in speed test should appear at the bottom or within the connection details ^[3].

4. Review Update Path Requirements

If you are on the Canary Channel, your device may be moving toward Build 29531.1000 or higher ^[2][5]. While the speed test is confirmed for the Release Preview builds, users in the Canary path may experience a temporary loss of certain features as they transition to new active development builds ^[5].

Channel	Build Series	Rollout Status
Release Preview	26100 / 26200	Gradual (In Progress) [4][9]
Canary	28000 / 29000	Unverified / Subject to Change [2][5]

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Note: If you meet the build requirements but do not see the feature, your device likely has not been included in the current phase of the Control Feature Rollout ^[2][4]. This is a standard procedure where Microsoft enables features for a subset of users to monitor performance before a broader release ^[2].

If you attempt to switch channels to find the feature, be aware that moving from a higher build number (like Canary) to a lower build number (like Release Preview) is typically impossible without a clean installation of Windows 11 ^[2][5].

Solutions / What to Do

Accessing the latest development features in Windows 11 requires navigating the Windows Insider Program. Because these features are often in early testing phases, the methods to obtain them involve different levels of technical risk and system stability.

Short-term Options: Joining the Canary Channel

The most direct way to see active platform changes and experimental features is by enrolling a device in the Canary Channel ^[2]. This channel receives the highest build numbers, such as version 29531.1000 ^[2].

• Enrollment: Navigate to Settings > Windows Update > Windows Insider Program to join.
• Update Recovery: Users should be aware that after taking an optional update in the 29000 series, it is not possible to switch to channels with lower build numbers (like Dev or Beta) without a clean installation ^[2].
• Feature Availability: Many features are rolled out via Control Feature Rollout technology, meaning they may only appear for a subset of users initially while feedback is monitored ^[2].

Long-term Options: Waiting for General Release

For users who require a stable environment, the best course of action is to wait for features to migrate from the Insider channels to the retail version of Windows 11.

• Finalization: Features tested in the Canary Channel may be modified, removed, or replaced based on feedback and are not matched to any specific retail release ^[2].
• Localization: As features move toward a final state, they undergo full localization into different languages ^[2][3].
• Stability: Waiting for the official update campaign ensures that the "fixes" and improvements have been vetted for broader hardware compatibility ^[1][5].

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Comparison of Update Paths

The following table outlines the differences between staying on the stable version of Windows 11 versus joining the Canary Channel.

Feature	Stable Windows 11	Canary Channel (e.g., Build 29531)
Stability	High / Production ready	Low / May be unstable [2]
New Features	Released when finalized	Early access to experimental concepts [2]
Documentation	Extensive and verified	Often limited or missing [2]
Reversibility	Standard uninstall/restore	Requires clean install to go back [2][3]

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Advanced Steps: Managing Early Builds

If you choose to use the Canary Channel, active participation in the feedback loop is recommended to ensure features are finalized correctly.

1. Monitor the Desktop: A watermark in the lower right corner is normal for these pre-release builds and indicates the system is on an evaluation copy ^[2].
2. Report Issues: Use the Feedback Hub to report bugs or localization errors in your specific language ^[2][3].
3. Check Build Status: Use Flight Hub to track which builds are currently active across the different Insider channels ^[2][3].

Warning: Canary Channel builds are intended for highly technical users. These versions can lead to system instability and may contain features that never reach the general public ^[2].

Risks, Limits, and When to Stop

While the integrated network speed test and other Windows 11 enhancements offer increased convenience, they are currently tied to the Windows Insider Program. Testing these features involves specific technical risks and limitations that users should evaluate before proceeding.

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Technical Restrictions and the "One-Way Street"

The most significant risk involves the inability to easily revert to previous versions of the operating system. Insiders cannot switch to a channel receiving builds with lower build numbers without performing a clean installation of Windows 11 ^[1][4].

• No Downgrade Path: Moving to a 29500 series build prevents a return to 28000 series builds or stable releases through standard update settings ^[1][4].
• Clean Install Required: To exit the Canary Channel or move to a more stable public build, a full clean installation is mandatory, which results in the removal of local files and applications ^[1][2].
• Feature Volatility: During active development, some existing features may experience a temporary loss of functionality or be removed entirely as the platform evolves ^[4].

Stability and Documentation Risks

Builds in the Canary Channel represent the earliest stages of the development cycle and are often not matched to a specific Windows release ^[1].

• System Instability: These builds can be unstable and may lead to system crashes or performance degradation ^[1].
• Limited Documentation: New updates are frequently released with limited documentation, making it difficult to troubleshoot issues independently ^[1].
• Localization Gaps: Features in active development may not be fully localized in all languages, potentially leading to interface inconsistencies ^[1][2].

Feature Availability and Rollout Limits

Even if a user installs the correct build, the new network speed test may not appear immediately due to Control Feature Rollout (CFR) technology ^[1][3].

Limitation Type	Description
Gradual Rollout	Features are delivered in phases; availability varies significantly by device [3].
CFR Technology	Microsoft starts with a subset of Insiders and ramps up availability based on feedback [1].
Enterprise Constraints	Features like Quick Machine Recovery stay off by default for domain-joined or enterprise-managed devices [3].

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When to Stop and Seek Professional Assistance

It is generally recommended that users continue on their current update path to maintain stability and predictability ^[4]. You should stop and reconsider your participation in the Insider Program if:

1. Primary Device Usage: You are using your primary or only computer for "mission-critical" work. These builds are intended for secondary testing environments ^[1].
2. No Backup Strategy: You do not have a verified, external backup of your data. The high likelihood of needing a clean install to return to stable Windows makes data loss a potential risk ^[1][2].
3. Critical Stability Needs: You cannot afford downtime caused by potential platform changes or unstable code ^[1][4].
4. Hardware Management: For enterprise users, if your device is domain-joined or enrolled in endpoint management, certain recovery features may be restricted or require organizational intervention ^[3].

If a device becomes unresponsive or stuck in a build that is too unstable for daily use, professional recovery may be necessary to preserve data before performing the required clean installation. It is typically more cost-effective to consult a professional once than to attempt to repair a corrupted operating system after a failed experimental update.

FAQ

What exactly is the new Windows 11 speed test feature?

The feature is a network utility integrated directly into the Windows 11 taskbar area ^[3][6]. It allows users to check their current internet connection performance, including upload and download speeds, in just a few seconds ^[4][7]. This tool aims to provide a more convenient way to diagnose connection issues without needing to open a web browser first ^[4][10].

How can users access the speed test from the taskbar?

The speed test button is typically housed within the Network flyout menu on the taskbar ^[5][9]. To find it, a user generally clicks on the Wi-Fi or Ethernet icon in the system tray, which opens the quick settings or network status panel where the test option is located ^[5][6].

Is this a standalone tool built by Microsoft?

While the interface is built into Windows 11, the underlying technology appears to be a link to external services. Reports indicate the button initiates a test powered by Ookla's Speedtest via Bing ^[5]. It serves as a shortcut that brings the functionality of web-based speed tests directly into the operating system interface ^[5][6].

Which versions of Windows 11 currently include this feature?

The speed test tool is currently available in specific Windows 11 Insider Preview builds ^[1][2]. It has been identified in the Canary Channel (Build 29531.1000) as well as the Release Preview Channel (Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918) ^[1][2][5]. It is not yet part of the standard, stable version of Windows 11 for all users.

When will the taskbar speed test be available for everyone?

Microsoft has not provided a specific "guaranteed" release date for the general public. However, the company has confirmed that new feature updates are expected to arrive frequently ^[9]. Some analysts suggest the feature could be included in a broad "feature drop" or a monthly cumulative update in the near future ^[8][9].

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Summary of Key Takeaways

• Integrated Testing: Microsoft is testing a built-in internet speed tool in the Windows 11 taskbar ^[3][6].
• Third-Party Engine: The tool likely utilizes Ookla and Bing services rather than a purely local measurement system ^[5].
• Insider Access: Currently, the feature is limited to Insider Preview builds like Canary and Release Preview ^[1][2].
• Future Rollout: While a specific date is unconfirmed, reports suggest a wider release may happen during upcoming monthly feature updates ^[9].

If you’re unsure about your network performance or system updates, it’s usually cheaper to ask someone once than to fix a mistake later.

Summary / Key Takeaways

The integration of a native network speed test into the Windows 11 taskbar represents a shift toward more accessible diagnostic tools for everyday users ^[1][7]. This feature, alongside improvements to backup systems and device recovery, indicates an ongoing effort to streamline OS management ^[1].

• Integrated Connectivity Diagnostics: Users can now trigger a network speed test directly from the Wi-Fi or Cellular Quick Settings or by right-clicking the network icon ^[1][7]. The test measures Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and cellular performance within the default browser ^[1].
• Enhanced Recovery and Backup: Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) now activates automatically for unmanaged Windows Professional devices ^[1]. Additionally, Windows Backup for Organizations now supports first sign-in restores for enterprise-joined and Cloud PCs ^[1].
• Refined Interface Logic: Changes to the taskbar overflow behavior ensure that only specific windows move to the overflow area when space is limited, rather than entire app sets ^[7].
• Hardware and Account Control: New settings allow for direct control of camera pan and tilt within the Settings app, while a new entry point in the Start menu provides quicker access to Microsoft account benefits ^[7].

The rollout of these features is currently divided between a gradual rollout, where availability varies by device, and a normal rollout for broader availability ^[1][6]. If you are unsure about performing manual updates or troubleshooting connectivity, it is usually cheaper to ask someone once than to fix a mistake later.

Quellen

^[1] Announcing New Optional Windows 11 Insider Preview Build for Canary Channel 2...

^[2] Releasing Windows 11 Builds 26100.7918 and 26200.7918 to the Release Preview ...

^[3] Microsoft is adding an internet speed test right into the Windows 11 taskbar,...

^[4] This new Windows 11 taskbar tool lets you test your internet speed in seconds...

^[5] Microsoft

^[6] Microsoft is bringing a built-in network speed test to Windows 11

^[7] How fast is your Internet? Windows 11 will (finally) tell you

^[8] Windows 11 is about to get a wealth of new features and changes

^[9] Microsoft confirms new Windows 11 feature drop coming next month

^[10] Windows 11's most commonly requested feature is coming soon!

^[11] Microsoft has kicked off its campaign to fix Windows 11 — but there

^[12] 14 privacy tweaks every Windows 11 user should know about

^[13] UN Global Compact Network USA 2025 Annual Report Showcases Private Sector Com...

^[14] Top Software Solutions for Vendor Support Satisfaction Ranked by Users in New...

^[15] Microsoft Is Now Testing a

^[16] Microsoft Adds Built-in Internet Speed Test For Windows 11 Taskbar In Latest ...

^[17] Windows 11’s taskbar internet speed test is a real quality-of-life upgr...

^[18] Windows 11 is adding a speed test, you can run it from the taskbar

^[19] Windows Insider Changes Signal Windows 11 27H2 Upgrade

^[20] Built-In Internet Speed Test Coming to Windows 11 Taskbar

^[21] Windows 11 is getting a built-in network speed test

^[22] Windows 11 Update: New Features and Improvements in Release Preview 26100.791...

^[23] Windows 11 adds native speed test to taskbar

^[24] Windows 11 March 2026 Update (KB5077241) enable new features for 25H2, 24H2

^[25] This Hidden Trick Removes the New Start Menu Instantly in Windows 11 -

^[26] Upcoming Windows 11 update to come with new and useful features

^[27] 5 tiny Windows 11 tweaks that make it feel like Windows 10

^[28] Windows 11: new taskbar, widgets, camera… here are the 5 new features awaitin...

^[29] Microsoft shows off AI running on the Windows 11 taskbar and File Explorer

^[30] Windows 11 Release Preview adds taskbar based network speed test shortcut

^[31] Windows 11 Release Preview Build Introduces Emoji 16 and Taskbar Enhancements...

^[32] These tools remove Windows 11 bloatware in minutes

^[33] Windows 11 KB5077181 fixes gaming bugs, Nvidia black screen, and performance ...

^[34] The Canary Channel is Somehow Getting Even Weirder

^[35] Windows 11 Insider Build 29531.1000: How to Opt-In and What to Expect

^[36] XFN 1.1 profile