Windows 11 already has a privacy dashboard that allows you to see the locations where sensitive hardware is utilized. It is possible to go in Settings > Privacy and see what apps have visited your location or seen you via the webcam. Additionally the taskbar in Windows 11 can reveal which apps are currently using the hardware capabilities.
In the case of Microsoft Edge is using your location, you will be able to detect the activity right on the information section in the taskbar. Microsoft is currently upgrading this feature by adding a important feature that is it’s VPN indicator.
As you will see in the following photo, Microsoft is testing a VPN indicator i.e an overlay of a shield for the network icon in the taskbar. The new icon on the taskbar indicates the fact that your computer is connected an VPN and is actively utilized by the system. However, it will not provide the exact details of what the VPN is used.
It also takes into consideration the accent colour , and complements Windows 11’s aesthetic. However, there’s one caveat that it only works in conjunction with the VPN via the system’s integrated Network & Internet > VPN tab. When you’re connected to the private network through”Quick Setting.
It currently doesn’t work on Wi-Fi. However, the Windows 11 VPN indicator is under development, and it will improve over time.