Windows Sandbox

Windows Sandbox is a lightweight, virtualized environment integrated into Windows 10 and Windows 11 (Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions) that allows you to run untrusted applications in isolation without risking your main system. Here's how to enable and use Windows Sandbox:

1. Check System Requirements

Before enabling Windows Sandbox, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education; Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education.
• Virtualization enabled in BIOS/UEFI.
• At least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB recommended).
• At least 1 GB of free disk space.
• 2 CPU cores (4 cores with hyperthreading recommended).

2. Enable Virtualization in BIOS/UEFI

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing a key like F2, F10, DEL, or ESC during startup).
2. Look for an option related to virtualization (it may be called "Intel VT-x", "AMD-V", or "Virtualization Technology") and enable it.
3. Save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI.

3. Enable Windows Sandbox

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type optionalfeatures and press Enter to open the Windows Features dialog.
3. In the Windows Features list, check the Windows Sandbox option.
4. Click OK. Windows will install the necessary components. Restart your computer if prompted.

4. Using Windows Sandbox

1. After restarting your computer, open the Start menu and search for "Windows Sandbox".
2. Click on Windows Sandbox to launch it.
3. A new window will open, displaying a clean Windows environment. You can now run any application or perform any action within this sandbox without affecting your main system.
4. When you close the Windows Sandbox, all changes made within it are discarded, and the environment resets to its original state.

Tips for Using Windows Sandbox

• File Transfer: You can copy files from your host system and paste them into the sandbox environment.
• Internet Access: Windows Sandbox has internet access, so you can download and test online applications securely.
• Temporary Environment: Remember that any changes or files created in the Sandbox will be lost when you close it. It's designed for temporary testing and running untrusted applications.

By following these steps, you can enable and use Windows Sandbox to run applications safely and test potentially risky software in an isolated environment.