Step-by-Step Guide to Enable Windows Sandbox on Windows 11 and 10

Key Notes

  • Windows Sandbox allows safe testing of untrusted applications.
  • It is available on Windows Pro and Enterprise editions.
  • You can enable it through graphical interface or command line.

Unlock the Power of Windows Sandbox on Windows 10 and 11

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of enabling Windows Sandbox, a vital tool for safely executing untrusted applications on your Windows 10 and 11 systems.

Enabling Windows Sandbox on Windows 10 and 11

Windows Sandbox provides users with a safe environment for testing untrusted software. Here’s how you can enable this feature on your device.

Step 1: Enable Windows Sandbox from Windows Features

To enable Windows Sandbox using the graphical interface, follow these steps:

  1. Open Start on your Windows device.

  2. Type Turn Windows features on or off and select the result.

  3. Locate and check Windows Sandbox in the list of features.

  4. Click the OK button to apply your changes.

  5. Restart your computer when prompted.

Once enabled, Windows Sandbox is ready to use from the Start menu.

Step 2: Enable Windows Sandbox from PowerShell

To activate Windows Sandbox via PowerShell, follow these steps:

  1. Open Start.

  2. Search for PowerShell, right-click the result, and select Run as administrator.

  3. Input the command below to enable the feature:

    Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName "Containers-DisposableClientVM" -All

  4. Press Y to confirm and restart your device.

After completing these steps, Windows Sandbox will be available from the Start Menu.

Step 3: Enable Windows Sandbox from Command Prompt

If you prefer using Command Prompt, here’s how to enable Windows Sandbox:

  1. Open Start.

  2. Search for Command Prompt, right-click, and select Run as administrator.

  3. Enter the following command:

    Dism /online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:"Containers-DisposableClientVM" -All

  4. Press Y to confirm and restart your device.

Upon completion, you can use Windows Sandbox for secure testing of applications.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure your BIOS/UEFI settings have virtualization enabled.
  • Use reliable antivirus software alongside Windows Sandbox for enhanced security.
  • Explore various settings within Windows Sandbox for optimal performance based on your needs.

Summary

Enabling Windows Sandbox is straightforward, whether through graphical Windows features or command-line tools like PowerShell and Command Prompt. Following the above steps will provide you with a secure environment to test applications without jeopardizing your main system.

Conclusion

Windows Sandbox is a powerful feature that enhances your computing security by allowing you to safely explore untrusted applications. Enabling it is an essential step for IT professionals and tech-savvy users alike.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is Windows Sandbox?

Windows Sandbox is a lightweight virtual environment that allows you to run untrusted applications without risking your main system.

Which Windows versions support Windows Sandbox?

Windows Sandbox is available on Windows 10 and 11, specifically in Pro and Enterprise editions.