How to Install and Run Software in Windows Sandbox (Windows 10 & 11)

Windows Sandbox is a built-in virtualization feature that lets you run software in a secure, isolated environment. Anything you install or test inside Sandbox does not affect your main system, and everything is deleted when you close it.

If you want to safely test unknown apps or files, here’s how to install and run software in Windows Sandbox.

What Is Windows Sandbox

Windows Sandbox is a lightweight virtual machine included in:

• Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise
• Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise

It creates a temporary Windows environment that:

• Is isolated from your main system
• Does not save changes after closing
• Runs safely without permanent impact

It is useful for testing installers, scripts, or suspicious files.

System Requirements

Before enabling Windows Sandbox, make sure:

• You are running Windows 10 or Windows 11 Pro/Enterprise
• Virtualization is enabled in BIOS
• At least 4GB RAM is available (8GB recommended)
• SSD storage is preferred

Home editions do not include Sandbox.

Step 1: Enable Windows Sandbox

1. Press Windows + R
2. Type:

optionalfeatures

3. Press Enter
4. Scroll down and check Windows Sandbox
5. Click OK
6. Restart your computer

After reboot, Sandbox will be available.

Step 2: Launch Windows Sandbox

1. Click Start
2. Search for Windows Sandbox
3. Click to open

A fresh virtual Windows environment will load.

Step 3: Install Software in Sandbox

To test software:

1. Download the installer on your main PC
2. Copy the installer file
3. Paste it inside the Sandbox window
4. Double-click the file
5. Install as usual

The software runs inside the isolated environment.

Step 4: Run the Software

After installation:

• Open the program normally
• Test its features
• Check behavior

Any changes remain confined within Sandbox.

Step 5: Close Sandbox

When finished:

• Close the Windows Sandbox window

All installed software, files, and changes will be permanently deleted.

No cleanup is required.

How Sandbox Protects Your PC

Windows Sandbox:

• Isolates file system
• Separates registry changes
• Prevents malware from affecting host system
• Deletes session data automatically

It is ideal for testing untrusted applications.

Common Issues and Fixes

If Windows Sandbox does not open:

• Enable virtualization in BIOS
• Update Windows
• Ensure you are using Pro or Enterprise edition
• Verify Hyper-V is not conflicting

Restart your system after enabling features.

When to Use Windows Sandbox

Use Sandbox when:

• Testing new software
• Opening suspicious files
• Checking unknown installers
• Reviewing scripts
• Running temporary applications

It reduces system risk significantly.

Limitations of Windows Sandbox

• Available only in Pro and Enterprise editions
• No permanent file storage
• Requires virtualization support
• Cannot install drivers for hardware testing

For persistent virtual machines, use Hyper-V or VirtualBox instead.

Final Thoughts

Windows Sandbox provides a secure and disposable environment for installing and running software without affecting your main system. It is easy to enable and ideal for testing untrusted programs on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

If you frequently test applications, Windows Sandbox is one of the safest built-in tools available.