Windows 11 "Perform Speed Test" Option: Feature or Just a Shortcut?
If you’ve recently right-clicked on the network icon in your Windows 11 taskbar, you might have noticed a new entry: "Perform speed test." At first glance, it looks like a handy new built-in tool to check your connection. But is it really a "feature," or just a clever shortcut?
Let’s dive into what this new option actually does and why you might want to look at other alternatives.
The Shortcut in Disguise
Despite its name, the "Perform speed test" option isn't a window that opens within the operating system. Instead, clicking it simply launches your default web browser and performs a predefined Bing search for "internet speed test."
Essentially, Microsoft has added a shortcut to a search engine result rather than building a native tool into Windows. While it gets the job done, it feels more like a tactic to drive traffic toward Bing than a genuine OS upgrade. Many users would prefer a small, integrated window that stays within Windows 11, similar to how the Volume or Calendar flyouts work.
Bing vs. Google: Which Test Should You Trust?
When you use the Windows 11 shortcut, you land on Bing’s speed test, which is powered by Ookla (the same people behind Speedtest.net). It’s a very popular and reliable service, but it is a commercial partnership.
In contrast, if you perform the same search on Google, you’ll find their built-in speed test powered by Measurement Lab (M-Lab). M-Lab is a non-profit, open-source project. Some users prefer this version because it’s seen as more transparent with data and less focused on commercial partnerships.
Why Should You Check Your Speed?
Regardless of which tool you use, knowing your internet speed is important. Your ISP (Internet Service Provider) promises you a certain "benchmark" speed—for example, 100 Mbps download and 50 Mbps upload.
If you run a test and find you're only getting 70 Mbps consistently, it might indicate a problem with your line or hardware. Knowing these numbers gives you the evidence you need when calling your ISP to troubleshoot connection issues.
Pro-Tips for an Accurate Speed Test
To get the most accurate results possible, keep these two things in mind:
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Use an Ethernet Cable: Wi-Fi can be unstable and affected by walls or distance. For a true "benchmark" of what your ISP is delivering, plug your computer directly into the router with an Ethernet cable.
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Close Background Apps: Make sure you aren't downloading large files or streaming 4K video on another device while running the test, as this will eat up your bandwidth and give you a lower reading.
Final Thoughts
The "Perform speed test" option in Windows 11 is a convenient shortcut if you don't want to type "speed test" into a browser yourself, but it’s far from a revolutionary feature. Whether it's a Microsoft tactic to boost Bing traffic or just a simple shortcut, it’s always good to know exactly what’s happening on your computer!
I’ve also made a video on this topic — you can watch it below.
Check out my other posts, I post useful tutorials and tech tips, maybe you will find something useful 😉.