You just downloaded an EXE file, but you doubt whether it is safe or contains a virus.
In an era of increasingly sophisticated malware attacks, downloaded EXE files can be a ticking time bomb that threatens your data and privacy. But don’t worry, Windows 11 has a built-in solution called Windows Sandbox, an isolated virtual environment that allows you to test suspicious files without the risk of infection to the main system!
Many users are unaware that 30% of malware disguises itself as legal EXE files (Kaspersky data 2023). Careless clicks can lead to data theft, ransomware, or system damage. Well, how to make sure the EXE file you download is completely safe?
Bardimin will guide you step by step, utilizing Windows Sandbox in Windows 11 to check EXE files easily. No need to install additional software or become an IT expert, just 5 minutes, and you can browse and download with confidence again. Let’s get started!
What Is Windows Sandbox and Why Is It Important for Security?
Windows Sandbox is a built-in advanced security feature in Windows 11 (available in Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions) that functions like a “virtual enclosure” to test for suspicious apps or files. Think of this as a closed lab where you can run programs without worrying about infecting your main system.
This feature is designed to provide an extra layer of protection without the need to use third-party virtualization software.
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Why is this feature important?
1. Risk-Free Real-Time Protection
- Whenever you run an EXE file, script, or unknown program, the Sandbox creates a completely isolated, clean environment.
- If a file turns out to contain malware, the threat will disappear once the Sandbox is closed, leaving no trace on your PC.
2. Key Advantages of Windows Sandbox
- Does not affect the main system. All changes (including software installation) only apply within the Sandbox.
- Self-destructing (automatically deleted after closing). There is no need to clear the cache or leftover files, the Sandbox always comes back “clean” when it is rerun.
- Compatible with Various Malicious Files. Not only EXE, but also PowerShell (.ps1) files, macro documents, or suspicious links.
How is Sandbox Different from a Regular Antivirus?
| Feature | Windows Sandbox | Traditional Antiviruses |
| Protection | Active isolation (live trial) | Virus database-based detection |
| Risk | 0% threat to the main system | Sometimes false-positive |
| Use | Manual (when needed) | Running in the background |
Steps to Check EXE Files with Windows Sandbox
1. Make sure Windows Sandbox is Active in Windows 11
Before you start, you’ll need to enable Windows Sandbox because this feature isn’t always installed by default. Here’s how:
1. Open the “Turn Windows Features On or Off” Menu
- Press Win + R, type optionalfeatures, and then press Enter.
- Alternatively, search for “Turn Windows features on or off” in the Start Menu.
2. Check the Windows Sandbox Option
- In the window that appears, look for “Windows Sandbox “ in the list.
- Put a checkmark (✓) on the option.
- Click OK and wait for the installation process to complete.
3. Restart Your Computer
- Windows will prompt a restart to apply the changes.
- Make sure all your work is saved before restarting.
2. Copy the EXE File into Windows Sandbox
Once the Sandbox is active, the next step is to move the EXE file you want to check into this virtual environment.
1. Open the Windows Sandbox
- Search for “Windows Sandbox” in the Start Menu and run the app.
- The sandbox will open like a new PC in a separate window.
2. Copy EXE File to Sandbox
- Method 1 (Drag & Drop):
Open the folder where the EXE file is stored, and then drag the file to the Sandbox window.
- Method 2 (Copy-Paste):
Right-click the EXE file in the main system > Copy, and then Paste it inside the Sandbox.