Microsoft replaces Bing with Windows 11 speed test
Tired of being dragged away to a web browser just to check your internet speed? Windows 11 is finally ditching the detour, introducing a built-in speed test tool that lives right where you need it: in Quick Settings.
For some time, the process of checking internet performance in Windows 11 felt a little clunky. While Microsoft had introduced a speed test feature previously, it operated less like a native system tool and more like a simple shortcut to opening Bing. Users felt it was an unnecessary redirection, taking valuable time away from their workflow just to measure their connection.
That frustration fueled a push for change. Microsoft listened to the feedback, recognizing that integrating useful functions directly into the operating system experience was key to a truly seamless experience. The goal was simple: make essential tools instantly accessible without leaving the task at hand.
To achieve this, Microsoft has been working behind the scenes to rebuild several elements of Windows 11 into native, built-in tools. This effort extends beyond major changes like the refreshed File Explorer context menu and the newly improved search experience; it focuses on these smaller, yet profoundly impactful updates that refine the daily user experience.
As part of this broader commitment, the updated internet speed test tool has been rolling out to Windows Insiders in the Experimental channel, specifically in build 26340.9767.
The new approach flips the script. Instead of launching a browser session, users can now access the speed test directly from the Wi-Fi or Cellular flyout within Quick Settings. Alternatively, you can simply right-click the network icon in the system tray and select Test internet speed.
The result is a dramatically smoother experience. When a test is initiated, Quick Settings displays the progress and results—including download speed, upload speed, and ping—right there, without any unwelcome redirects. This updated experience allows users to quickly understand their connection performance without ever leaving their current workflow.
By moving the functionality into a native Quick Settings feature, Microsoft is demonstrating a commitment to making Windows 11 feel less like a collection of separate applications and more like an integrated, intelligent operating system.
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