Sandboxie is a powerful and long-established sandbox tool for Windows. It creates a virtual program execution environment completely isolated from the user's own system. Programs running in Sandboxie will not affect the original system and cannot modify the user's computer data. When the software is closed, all data in the virtual system is destroyed and reset. Therefore, neither viruses nor malicious files will cause actual damage to the system. Simply restarting the software restores everything to its original state, making Sandboxie ideal for running programs with security risks. In simpler terms, think of your computer as a piece of paper. Programs write all changes on the paper during runtime. The sandbox tool is like placing a pane of glass on top of that paper. Programs in the sandbox (glass) can still read and write on the paper, just like on a regular computer.
However, when we close the sandbox (remove the glass), everything on the glass is reset and erased, but the original content on the paper remains unchanged.
Sandboxie is truly incredibly useful, with many uses and a wide range of applications. For example, those with a system cleanliness obsession can use it to protect their system from junk files left by programs; software enthusiasts can use it to test various programs, preventing virus infections and protecting privacy, etc.
You can also use Sandboxie's restore and reset features to achieve "unlimited free software trials"; even allowing some restricted programs, such as "dual-opening WeChat," multi-instance games, etc. Of course, everyone can think of other creative new uses. This amazing tool is now completely free and can definitely become an essential tool for every gamer.
Feature Introduction
Sandboxie uses isolation technology to separate programs from the underlying operating system to prevent unnecessary changes to personal data, programs, and applications securely stored on the hard drive.
Web Browsing
Protect your favorite web browser and block malware, viruses, ransomware, and zero-day threats by isolating such attacks in the sandbox; protect your system
Run your favorite email program in Sandboxie so you don't have to worry about suspicious attachments or spear-phishing attacks
Data Protection
The sandbox prevents internet websites and programs from modifying your personal data (i.e., "My Documents"), files, and folders on your system
Application Testing
Securely test and try new programs and applications in Sandboxie and prevent unauthorized changes to your underlying system
Sandboxie Hands-On Test
I personally use Win11 23H2+
After several rounds of testing with the i5-1240P, using commonly used software:- Cold start time: Approximately 0.7 seconds, almost no delay.
- Enabling a sandboxed Chrome: Memory usage increased by 80-120 MB.
- Installing a 60MB unfamiliar software: Installation successful, but all files were placed in the sandbox directory.
- Deleting the sandbox: Completely cleared within 5 seconds.
- Browser isolation: Registry write attempts were completely blocked when accessing advertising sites.
Interestingly, when I deliberately opened a suspicious .exe file, its attempt to release the driver was directly blocked by Sandboxie; the software interface didn't even complete its process. This reassured me.
Sandboxie Pros & Cons
Advantages:
- Very lightweight, runs even on older computers.
- Isolation is truly robust, not based on any mystical methods.
- Active open-source community, high-quality documentation.
- Suitable for software testing, privacy protection, and browser isolation.
Disadvantages:
- Slightly confusing at first glance, the menu is rather "tech-savvy".
- Not perfectly compatible with some software that requires drivers.
- The interface is somewhat old-fashioned and lacks a "modern" feel.
Sandboxie License Information
Sandboxie is currently open-source and free software, requiring no payment.
Previously, there was a commercially licensed version, but it's now completely free to use.Sandboxie Open Source Status
It was originally a closed-source commercial tool, but Sophos opened up its source code, and it's now continuously maintained by the community (Sandboxie Plus). This is a very rare case of "open source reversal."
Sandboxie FAQ
- Q: Is there an Android or iOS version?
A: No, the sandbox relies on the Windows kernel mechanism, which cannot be ported to mobile devices. - Q: Can it isolate UWP applications?
A: Mostly not, the UWP permission framework itself is very closed. - Q: Can it prevent account bans in games?
A: No, anti-cheat drivers can usually detect the sandbox environment. - Q: Can it be used as a lightweight virtual machine?
- A: No, it's not a virtual machine and won't emulate hardware.
- Q: Will browser history be stored in the sandbox?
A: Yes, it will be gone if you turn off the sandbox.
Sandboxie Conclusion
In critical scenarios, Sandboxie can be more practical than antivirus software. It's like a box you can throw away anytime; it doesn't take up much space but effectively blocks unknown risks. If you're a Windows user who likes to tinker but is afraid of making mistakes, you can give it a try.
Sandboxie Version Changes
- Fixed some sandbox communication anomalies on Win11.
- Enhanced Chrome browser's isolation rules.
- Updated driver signatures for compatibility with new kernel patches.
- Optimized cleanup speed; large sandbox deletions are faster.