The new sandbox feature in Windows 10 allows you to test software you don’t trust. Here’s how to enable or disable sandbox in Windows 10.
Sometimes we download applications and other files either from a software download website like download.com (which is not good) or directly from the developer website and are unsure if the download is clean. i.e., safe to install or run. In those situations, it is better to test the software before installing or use it.
Previously, you had to use a dedicated sandbox software like Sandboxie or fire up a full-fledged virtual machine using powerful and resource-hungry virtualization software like VMware or VirtualBox. But, that is no longer the case. Windows 10 now has a built-in sandbox that is lightweight and works perfectly.
What is Windows Sandbox?
Windows Sandbox is a lightweight virtual Windows 10 environment that runs in a completely separate protected space. It is perfect for testing software, access potentially harmful websites, etc. Since the sandbox is essentially a lightweight Windows 10 environment, you can use it as your regular Windows 10 system. Anything you do in the sandbox does not affect your regular Windows 10 installation. In case you don’t know, Microsoft also added the sandbox feature to Windows Defender so that it can better scan and protect your system from malware, virus, and other threats.
Without ado, let me show you how to enable sandbox in Windows 10.
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Can I Run Windows Sandbox?
Before enabling and using the Windows 10 Sandbox feature, your system should support the following prerequisites. The requirements listed below are very common. If you bought a computer in the last couple of years, your system should be good to go. But it is better to check twice before trying to enable the sandbox in Windows 10.
1. You should be running a 64-bit version of Windows 10
2. Your system should support virtualization. If you are not sure, download this software and execute the .exe file. It will instantly tell whether your system supports hardware virtualization or not. If hardware virtualization is supported, you will see “Yes” on top of “Hardware Virtualization.” Conveniently, the software also tells whether you are running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows.
3. Your system should have at least 4GB of memory (RAM). 8GB is recommended for a smooth experience.
4. Should have at least 1GB of free space for the sandbox. Follow this and this article to free up some space.
5. You should be running Windows 10 version 1903 (build 18305 or higher). If you are unsure, follow the link to check your Windows 10 version number.
Once you’ve confirmed all the requirements, proceed to enable sandbox in Windows 10. If the system doesn’t meet the above requirements, you will either not see the “Windows Sandbox” option, or it will be greyed out.
Enable Sandbox in Windows 10
- Open the start menu.
- Search for “Control Panel” and open it.
- Find “Programs and Features” option and click on it.
- Click on the “Turn Windows Features On or Off” link on the sidebar.
- In the new window, scroll down and select the checkbox next to “Windows Sandbox”.
- Click on the “Ok” button.
- Windows will automatically make the necessary changes. Click on the “Restart” button in the last window.
That is it, you’ve enabled the sandbox feature on Windows 10. After restarting, you can start using it by searching for “Windows Sandbox” in the start menu.
Disable Sandbox in Windows 10
Disabling the sandbox feature on Windows 10 is as easy as enabling it.
First, open the Start menu, search for “,” uncheck the “Windows Sandbox” checkbox and click the “Ok” button. Finally, restart the system. After restarting, the sandbox will be disabled, and you will no longer be able to access it.
I hope that helps.
If you like this article, do check out how to remove 3d objects folder from file explorer on Windows 10.
I don’t have the Windows Sandbox option in Turn Windows Features On Or Off and I’m running Windows 10 Build 1903 Home
Since the feature uses a stripped-down version of Hyper-V in the background, Windows Sandbox is not available for Windows 10 Home users.
I don’t have that setting in Windows Features.
Make sure you on Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise edition with version 1903 or higher. Also, your system should support hardware virtualization. You can check that using the software I’ve shown above.
I have W 10 Pro v. 20H2. The Sandbox feature is not available because “virtualization is disabled in the firmware”. Still, when I copy an Open Office file letter (which has a header portion that I use as stationary for letters to a group of people) to my surprise the result is flagged with the Sandbox label. The copy is then blocked from further use. A mystery to me! Any ideas?