Windows Sandbox is a temporary isolated Windows desktop for testing apps or opening suspicious files away from your real system. Everything inside disappears when you close it.
It is available on Windows 10/11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education, not Home editions.
Does This Affect You?
Use Sandbox for quick one-time testing when you do not want to build a full virtual machine. It starts clean every time and does not keep changes between sessions.
Turn On Windows Sandbox
- Search for Turn Windows features on or off and open it.
- Check Windows Sandbox.
- Click OK and let Windows install the feature.
- Restart when prompted.
- Open Windows Sandbox from the Start menu.
Test a File or App
- Open Windows Sandbox.
- Drag the file or installer into the Sandbox window.
- Run it inside the Sandbox as you normally would.
- When finished, close the Sandbox window.
- Confirm closing it; Windows discards everything inside.
Sandbox Notes
If It Is Missing
The PC may be running Windows Home or missing required virtualization support. Check edition under Settings > System > About.
Enable Virtualization
If Sandbox installs but will not start, enable Intel VT-x, Virtualization Technology, AMD-V, or SVM Mode in BIOS/UEFI.
Internet and Folder Access
Sandbox normally has internet access but not your real files. Advanced users can create .wsb configuration files to share folders or change memory settings.
Sandbox vs Full VM
Sandbox is faster and disposable. A full virtual machine is better when you need a persistent, customized environment.
Sources
- Microsoft Learn: Windows Sandbox overview
- Microsoft Learn: Windows Sandbox requirements
- Microsoft Support: Turn Windows features on or off