how to start windows 10 in safe mode

2 min read 07-09-2024

Starting your Windows 10 PC in Safe Mode can be a lifesaver when you're facing issues such as system errors, malware infections, or drivers that aren't functioning properly. Safe Mode allows you to troubleshoot and fix problems with minimal interference from other programs or services running in the background. In this guide, we’ll explore different methods to boot your Windows 10 into Safe Mode.

What is Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode of the Windows operating system. It starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, helping you identify and resolve issues without distractions. Think of it like a clean room where you can examine problems without the clutter of normal operation.

Why Use Safe Mode?

You might want to use Safe Mode when:

Your computer is running slowly or is unresponsive.
You’re experiencing issues after installing new software or hardware.
You want to remove malware that is preventing normal operation.
Drivers need to be rolled back or uninstalled.

Methods to Start Windows 10 in Safe Mode

Method 1: Using the Settings App

Open Settings: Click on the Start button and select the gear icon to open the Settings window.
Navigate to Update & Security: Click on Update & Security.
Access Recovery: From the left menu, select Recovery.
Restart Now: Under the Advanced Startup section, click on Restart now.
Select Troubleshoot: After your PC restarts, choose Troubleshoot.
Go to Advanced Options: Select Advanced options.
Select Startup Settings: Click on Startup Settings.
Restart Again: Click on Restart.
Choose Safe Mode: After the restart, you'll see a list of options. Press the corresponding number key for Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.

Method 2: Using the Power Menu

Access the Power Menu: Hold the Shift key and click on the Restart option in the power menu from the Start button.
Follow Steps 5 to 9: Follow the same steps as in Method 1 from Select Troubleshoot onward to choose Safe Mode.

Method 3: Using the System Configuration Tool (msconfig)

Open Run Command: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
Type msconfig: Type msconfig and hit Enter.
Go to the Boot Tab: In the System Configuration window, click on the Boot tab.
Select Safe Boot: Check the Safe boot option and choose Minimal or Network if you want internet access.
Click OK: Click OK, and then choose Restart when prompted.

Method 4: From a Black or Blank Screen

If Windows 10 fails to boot properly, you can force it into Safe Mode:

Turn Off the PC: Hold down the power button until your PC shuts down.
Turn On and Off Again: Turn it back on, and as soon as you see the Windows logo, hold down the power button again to turn it off. Repeat this process three times.
Access Recovery Environment: After the third failure, Windows will enter the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
Follow Steps 5 to 9: Again, follow the instructions in Method 1 from Select Troubleshoot to enter Safe Mode.

Conclusion

Safe Mode is a powerful tool for troubleshooting your Windows 10 system. By following these methods, you can quickly enter Safe Mode to diagnose and fix your computer problems. Remember, while in Safe Mode, you may not have all the functionalities available, but it’s the perfect environment to solve many issues.

If you found this guide helpful, check out our other articles on troubleshooting Windows issues and optimizing system performance. Safe computing!