How to Boot to Safe Mode on Windows 10

Windows / By / June 25, 2023

Safe mode is an essential troubleshooting tool in Windows 10. It is a diagnostic mode of the operating system that loads a minimal set of drivers and services. This mode is useful for fixing problems caused by malware or incorrect system configurations. In safe mode, you can perform various tasks, such as uninstalling a problematic program, repairing an operating system, or updating drivers. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to boot to safe mode in Windows 10.

Video Tutorial:

The Challenge of How to Boot to Safe Mode on Windows 10

The challenge of booting to safe mode on Windows 10 comes with the fact that it is not as straightforward as it was in earlier versions of Windows. The traditional method of pressing the F8 key repeatedly during system startup no longer works in Windows 10. Also, if your system crashes and restarts automatically, it will skip the safe mode automatically and reload the Windows operating system normally.

Things You Should Prepare for

Before you proceed with any of the safe mode booting methods, you need to prepare the following:

  1. A Windows 10 installation media (USB flash drive or DVD), which you should create before any issues arise. The installation media will enable you to access recovery tools, system images, and other troubleshooting options.
  2. The account with administrator rights: The safe mode requires administrator rights to access advanced settings.
  3. Patience: Safe mode booting can take more time than normal booting since the system loads only a minimal set of drivers and services.

Method 1: Boot to Safe Mode Using Advanced Startup Options

This method is the most straightforward and involves using the advanced startup options. Here are the steps:

  1. Click the Start menu and then the power icon. While holding down the shift key, click Restart.
  2. The computer will restart, and you will see the Choose an option screen. Select Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, and finally Startup Settings.
  3. Click Restart, and your system will restart into the advanced startup options screen.
  4. On the Startup settings screen, press F4 or 4 to enter safe mode. If you need to boot to safe mode with networking features, press F5 or 5 instead.

Pros:

  • It’s a built-in feature in Windows 10
  • No need to download any third-party program
  • Easy to access and perform
  • You can access various advanced troubleshooting options in the advanced startup settings

Cons:

  • If the system is stuck or cannot boot past the welcome screen, you cannot use this method
  • Sometimes, some options on the advanced startup menu may not work

Method 2: Boot to Safe Mode Using System Configuration (msconfig)

The System Configuration tool is a handy tool that allows you to change various system settings, including the startup type, boot options, and services. Here are the steps:

  1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type msconfig and press Enter.
  2. On the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.
  3. Check the Safe boot option (minimal or network options) and click OK.
  4. A new window will appear, asking you to restart your computer. Save all your work and click Restart.

Pros:

  • The tool is built-in and easy to use for experienced users
  • You can set up your system to always boot to safe mode if required
  • You can enable or disable various services that may cause issues on the normal startup

Cons:

  • Not suitable for novice users
  • Requires the use of the command prompt
  • If poorly configured, it may cause further issues or prevent the system from starting up

Method 3: Boot to Safe Mode Via Shift + Restart

The Shift + Restart method is similar to Method 1, but instead of starting from the start menu, you can use the sign-in screen. Here are the steps:

  1. While at the sign-in screen, press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard and click Restart.
  2. After a short loading time, you will see the Choose an option screen. Click Troubleshoot, Advanced options, and finally Startup settings .
  3. Click Restart.
  4. Press F4 or 4 to enter safe mode, or F5 or 5 for safe mode with networking.

Pros:

  • Uses a different approach to enter safe mode, and hence useful if the start menu is not working
  • Good for experienced users who prefer keyboard shortcuts
  • Allows for troubleshooting options before booting into safe mode

Cons:

  • If the keyboard isn’t working correctly, you may not use this method
  • Sometimes, the system may fail to load the advanced startup options

Method 4: Boot to Safe Mode Using Command Prompt

The command prompt is one of the powerful tools in Windows 10. You can use it to perform various tasks, including entering safe mode. Here are the steps:

  1. Press the Windows Key + X keys to open the power user menu. Click on Command prompt (admin).
  2. On the command prompt window, type in the following command and press Enter:
    bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal
  3. After executing the command successfully, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
  4. The computer should then boot into safe mode.

Pros:

  • The method uses a unique approach to booting to safe mode that is less likely to fail.
  • The command prompt is a powerful tool that you can use to perform other tasks.

Cons:

  • This method requires advanced technical skills and may not be suitable for novice users.
  • If the command is entered incorrectly, you may cause more issues than you intended to fix.

Why Can’t I Boot to Safe Mode on Windows 10

  • Corrupted system files can prevent you from booting into safe mode. To fix this, try repairing your operating system using the Windows installation media.
  • Malware or virus infections may prevent you from booting to safe mode by interfering with the boot process. Run a full system scan using an antivirus program in recovery mode.
  • Third-party software conflicts or drivers may cause Windows 10 to fail to boot into safe mode. Try disabling all non-essential services or uninstall problematic programs in normal startup mode.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when booting to safe mode:

  1. Create a system restore point before you boot into safe mode
  2. If possible, backup your critical files in case of data loss
  3. Ensure you have sufficient power supply to avoid sudden shutdowns during the process

5 FAQs about Booting to Safe Mode on Windows 10

Q1: How do I know if my computer is in safe mode?

A: When you boot your computer in safe mode, it will display the words “Safe Mode” in all four corners of the screen. You may also notice that the resolution is lower than normal and that certain features are disabled.

Q2: How do I disable safe mode in Windows 10?

A: There are two ways to disable safe mode in Windows 10: by restarting your computer normally, or by using the System Configuration tool to deselect the Safe boot option.

Q3: Can I access the internet in safe mode?

A: Yes, but you will need to boot into safe mode with networking features enabled. To do this, follow Method 1 or Method 3 but instead of pressing F4/F5, press F5/F6.

Q4: Will safe mode fix all my computer problems?

A: No, safe mode is not a silver bullet for all computer problems. It is merely a diagnostic mode that loads a basic set of drivers and services. Some problems may only be resolved using other troubleshooting methods or third-party software.

Q5: Are there any risks involved with booting into safe mode?

A: Generally, there are no risks involved in booting to safe mode. However, if you are not familiar with the advanced settings that are enabled in safe mode, you may accidentally disable vital services or drivers that may cause further issues.

In Conclusion

Booting to safe mode is a crucial step in any Windows 10 troubleshooting process. It is essential to know how to use this diagnostic mode and the various methods available to access it. We hope this blog post has provided you with valuable insights and guidance on how to boot to safe mode in Windows 10.

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