With Windows 10 version 1903 build 18305, Microsoft introduced the Windows Sandbox feature. Windows Sandbox feature helps you run programs in isolation without affecting your Windows 10 host in any way.
The Sandbox feature is ideal for testing unknown or untrusted programs. A program running in Sandbox cannot make changes to Windows 10 host and the data on the host machine.
Windows Sandbox feature is not available in Windows 10 Home. The feature is part of Pro and Enterprise editions of Windows 10 only.
While most PCs running Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise will support the Sandbox feature, it’s best to make sure that your PC meets the minimum system requirements of the Sandbox feature.
Windows Sandbox minimum system requirements
# Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise build 18305 or later
# 64-bit architecture
# At least 4 GB of RAM
# At least 1 GB of free disk space
# At least 2 CPU cores
# Virtualization enabled in BIOS
Using Windows Sandbox in Windows 10
Step 1: First of all, launch the Windows Sandbox by typing the same in the Start/taskbar search field and then hitting the Enter key.
If you cannot find the Windows Sandbox, it’s likely because the feature is turned off. Refer to our how to enable or disable Windows Sandbox feature in Windows 10 guide for step-by-step directions.
Step 2: Once the Sandbox is launched, copy and paste the program setup file that you want to run in Sandbox. If you have not already downloaded the file, you can use the Edge browser within the Sandbox to download the program.
Step 3: Run the setup file and then install the program. Use the Start menu in the Sandbox to launch the program. Use the program like you would do in the regular desktop environment.
Note that internet works in the Sandbox without any issues.
However, bear in mind that the program cannot make changes to your Windows 10 host operating system. That is, you cannot make any changes to Windows 10 host using the program running in the Sandbox.
Step 4: Once you are done using the program, close the Sandbox. Remember that closing the Sandbox will delete the program and all its data from the Sandbox. So, if you would like to use the program again, you will have to install it again in Sandbox. Any program or file that you downloaded during the session will also be removed permanently.
If you would like to temporarily use any other program, we suggest you minimize the Sandbox as closing it will delete the program you are testing and its data. You will have to start all over again.
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