How to Boot Windows in Safe Mode

Your Windows computer can be started in Safe Mode to ensure that it only runs the most important programs. Normally, a lot of drivers are loaded when your computer boots up. Drivers are programs that enable your operating system (OS) to communicate with hardware and software. However, only the bare minimum of drivers required to run the computer are loaded when you start-up in Safe Mode.

Why should you launch Windows in Safe Mode?

If your Windows computer seems to be having issues, isn’t functioning properly, is freezing or crashing, or occasionally displays a blue or black screen, you might try starting Windows in Safe Mode to resolve some Windows problems.

There are also cases where this diagnostic mode is essential for getting rid of computer viruses. Running Windows in Safe Mode only loads the core components, and most unnecessary drivers, services, and codes are disabled. Additionally, Safe Mode stops dubious startup apps from executing, which makes it simpler to identify the root of operating system issues.

Procedures to Start Windows in Safe Mode

Windows is launched in Safe Mode with a minimal set of drivers and data. When a problem doesn’t occur in safe mode, it means that the default device drivers and settings aren’t to blame. You can identify the root cause of a problem and troubleshoot it on your computer by watching Windows in safe mode.

Boot in Safe Mode – Windows 10 and 11

1. Click Windows Start and then please choose Settings from the list. You can also use the Windows Start Search and type “Settings” and click on the result.

2. On the left pane, click on Recovery.

3. The right pane should show the Advanced Startup section. Click on the Restart Now button. The computer will restart.

4. After the boot-up, Choose an Option screen will appear. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. The computer will reboot once more.

5. After the restart, another list of options is provided. Use the keyboard Up/Down Arrow to select, or simply press the corresponding key for your choice:

  • Safe Mode  – 4 or F4
  • Sade Mode with Networking  (with internet connection) – 5 or F5

Boot in Safe Mode – Windows 8

1. Turn on the computer and immediately press and hold Shift and tap F8 on the keyboard repeatedly until you see the Recovery Mode menu.

2. Once in the Recovery Mode, please choose See advanced repair options.

3. Next, click on Troubleshoot.

4. On the next window, select Advanced Options.

5. Please choose Windows Startup Settings.

6. Next, click on the Restart button. Windows will not reboot.

7. The computer will restart in the Advanced Boot Options menu. Use the keyboard Up/Down Arrow to select Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.

Screenshot of Advanced Options Menu

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