Getting Started with Windows Sandbox: A Beginner’s Guide

Windows Sandbox is a lightweight desktop environment that allows you to safely run applications in isolation from your main Windows installation. It is perfect for testing software or browsing risky sites without affecting your system. Here’s how to get started with Windows Sandbox.

Prerequisites

Before using Windows Sandbox, ensure the following:

1. Windows Version: Sandbox is available on Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education (version 1903 or later) and Windows 11.
2. Hardware Requirements:

   • 64-bit architecture
   • Minimum 4 GB of RAM (8 GB recommended)
   • Minimum 1 GB of free disk space (SSD recommended)
   • Virtualization capabilities enabled in the BIOS

Enabling Windows Sandbox

Step 1: Enable Virtualization

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
2. Look for options like "Intel VT-x", "AMD-V", or "Virtualization Technology", and enable them.
3. Save changes and exit.

Step 2: Enable Windows Sandbox Feature

1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Go to Programs > Turn Windows features on or off.
3. Scroll down and check Windows Sandbox.
4. Click OK and restart your computer if prompted.

Using Windows Sandbox

Step 1: Launch Windows Sandbox

1. Press the Start button and type Windows Sandbox.
2. Click on it to open.

Step 2: Use the Sandbox Environment

1. Once launched, a new window will appear with a clean, isolated virtual version of your Windows.
2. You can copy files from your main system into the sandbox for testing.

Step 3: Install and Test Applications

1. Download and run applications like you would on your main system.
2. Experiment without worrying about affecting your main machine.

Step 4: Close Windows Sandbox

• To exit, simply close the Sandbox window. This action will delete all your activities within the sandbox, ensuring no changes impact your main system.

Additional Tips

• No Persistence: Remember, nothing is saved once you close the Sandbox, so copy any necessary data back to your main system if needed.
• File Transfers: Use copy-paste or drag-and-drop to move files between your system and Sandbox.
• System Performance: Running Sandbox consumes resources similar to running a virtual machine, so close unnecessary applications to ensure smooth performance.

That’s it! You’re now ready to start using Windows Sandbox safely and efficiently. Happy testing!