Sandboxie is a powerful program for virtualization designed to provide an extra layer of security for your computer. Its main purpose is to isolate applications which you run through it, running them in a controlled and isolated environment known as a sandbox. This prevents any unwanted changes or even damage to your main system.
When you run an application through Sandboxie, the program redirects all files, registry keys and other traces which it leaves, to this isolated area. That way, if the app tries to make changes to your system (for example, install malware, change system settings, or save temporary files), those changes are only made to the sandbox, not to the actual operating system.
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Expert Tips
Quick Start: Running Your First Program Sandboxed
- After installation, right-click on any program’s executable file or shortcut.
- From the context menu, hover over Run Sandboxed and select DefaultBox.
- The program will launch within the isolated environment, often indicated by a yellow border around its window or a hash mark in the taskbar icon.
Why: This allows you to safely test untrusted applications or browse the web without risking permanent changes to your system, as all modifications are contained within the sandbox.
Configuring Forced Programs for Automatic Sandboxing
- Open the Sandboxie Plus main interface (SandMan.exe).
- Navigate to Sandbox Settings for a specific sandbox (e.g., DefaultBox).
- Go to the Program Start section and then Forced Programs.
- Use Add By Name or Add By File to select applications (like your web browser) that you want to always run sandboxed automatically.
Why: Automatically forcing frequently used applications, especially web browsers, into a sandbox enhances your security by ensuring that any potential threats encountered during browsing or daily use are isolated and cannot affect your host system.
Enabling Immediate Recovery for Important Files
- In Sandboxie Plus, right-click on your desired sandbox (e.g., DefaultBox) and select Sandbox Options.
- Under Recovery Options, check Show file recovery window when emptying sandboxes and Check sandboxes auto-delete status when Sandman starts’.
Why: This setting ensures that if you download or create important files within a sandbox, Sandboxie Plus will prompt you to recover them to your host system before the sandbox contents are deleted, preventing accidental data loss.
Download Sandboxie
File size: 2.97 MB
OS support: Windows
Windows
Sandboxie 1.17.8 Final for Windows – Plus x64
Main Features
- Application Isolation: Sandboxie runs applications in a controlled, isolated environment, preventing them from making permanent or unwanted changes to your main system. This ensures a safe space for potentially risky operations.
- Enhanced Malware Protection: By isolating internet browsers and other applications, Sandboxie prevents malicious websites, viruses, or spyware from directly infecting your computer, containing threats within the sandbox.
- Safe Software Testing: Users can safely install and test new software within a sandbox without concern that it will alter or damage the actual operating system, making it ideal for evaluating untrusted programs.
- Secure File Opening: Suspicious files, such as documents, photos, or executable files, can be opened within the sandbox. This allows users to inspect their contents without risking infection or compromise of the host system.
- Automatic Trace Erasure: Upon closing a sandboxed application, Sandboxie automatically erases all traces of its activity, including temporary files, browser history, and any registry changes made within the isolated environment.
- Easy Configuration Recovery: The software allows for simple restoration of original system configurations. If settings are changed or unwanted items are downloaded during a sandboxed session, clearing the sandbox returns the system to its clean state.
- Browser Security: It significantly increases security when browsing the Internet by isolating browser activity. Even if a malicious website is encountered, it cannot install harmful software directly onto your computer.
System Requirements
Minimum
- OS: Windows 7, 8.1, 10, 11 (64-bit)
- Processor: 1 GHz or higher
- RAM: 2 GB
- Disk Space: 50 MB free disk space
Recommended
- RAM: 4 GB
Technical Specifications
| Software Name | Sandboxie |
|---|---|
| Version | 1.17.8 |
| License | Freeware |
| File Size | 2.97 MB |
| OS Support | Windows |
| Language | Multi-language |
| Developer | David Xanatos (Sandboxie-Plus) |
| Homepage | https://sandboxie-plus.com/ |
| Changelogurl | https://github.com/sandboxie-plus/Sandboxie/releases/ |
| Last Updated | June 8, 2026 |
Setup Instructions
Installation Steps
- Click the download button above to get the installer for your operating system
- Locate the downloaded file and double-click to run the installer
- Follow the on-screen installation wizard to complete setup
Compatibility: Compatible with Windows 7 and later versions
Problem Solving
- Issue: Installation fails → Solution: Run as administrator
Common Questions
Is Sandboxie free to use?
Yes, Sandboxie is available as freeware for personal, non-commercial use, with its core features being free. Some advanced features in the software Plus may require a supporter certificate.
What operating systems does Sandboxie support?
Sandboxie primarily supports 64-bit versions of Windows 7, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11. Older versions had limited support for Windows XP SP3 and Vista SP2.
Can Sandboxie protect against all types of malware?
Sandboxie provides a strong layer of security by isolating applications, preventing most malicious software from making permanent changes to your system. However, it is recommended to use it in conjunction with traditional anti-malware software for comprehensive protection.
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