When your Windows 10 PC starts acting up, sometimes you need to enter Safe Mode to troubleshoot the problem. Safe Mode boots your computer with only essential drivers and services, which can help you diagnose and fix issues. Here’s a quick way to get into Safe Mode from boot: restart your computer, hold the Shift key while it restarts, navigate through the "Troubleshoot" and "Advanced options" menus, and finally, select "Safe Mode."
How to Enter Safe Mode Windows 10 from Boot
Entering Safe Mode from boot is a great way to diagnose and fix problems with your Windows 10 system. Here are the steps to get you started.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Press the Start button, click the power icon, and choose "Restart" while holding the Shift key.
Holding the Shift key while selecting "Restart" will force Windows to boot into a special menu with several troubleshooting options.
Step 2: Choose Troubleshoot
From the options screen, select "Troubleshoot."
The "Troubleshoot" menu is designed to help you fix various issues affecting your computer, and it will get you closer to Safe Mode.
Step 3: Go to Advanced Options
Next, click on "Advanced options."
The "Advanced options" menu contains a variety of tools that can help you fix more complex problems, including Safe Mode.
Step 4: Select Startup Settings
In the "Advanced options" menu, choose "Startup Settings."
"Startup Settings" is the place where you can boot your computer into different modes, including Safe Mode.
Step 5: Restart Your PC
Click "Restart" to reboot your computer.
This will restart your computer, but this time it will present you with a list of options for how you’d like Windows to start.
Step 6: Enable Safe Mode
Press the number 4 key on your keyboard to select "Enable Safe Mode."
Congratulations! Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode, which uses a minimal set of drivers and services to help you troubleshoot your issues.
Once you complete these steps, your computer will boot into Safe Mode. In Safe Mode, you can perform various troubleshooting tasks like uninstalling problematic software, running antivirus scans, or restoring the system to a previous state.
Tips for How to Enter Safe Mode Windows 10 from Boot
- Backup Your Data: Before entering Safe Mode, it’s a good idea to back up your important files.
- Know What You’re Looking For: Have a clear idea of what issues you’re trying to solve while in Safe Mode.
- Use Safe Mode with Networking: If you need internet access for troubleshooting, you can choose the "Safe Mode with Networking" option.
- Exit Safe Mode: To exit Safe Mode, simply restart your computer normally without holding the Shift key.
- Use System Restore: If you’re unsure what’s causing the problem, use System Restore to revert your computer to an earlier state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Safe Mode?
Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows 10 that starts your computer with a minimal set of drivers and services.
Why would I need to use Safe Mode?
Safe Mode helps you troubleshoot and fix problems that might be preventing your system from booting normally.
Can I access the internet in Safe Mode?
Yes, you can choose "Safe Mode with Networking" to have internet access while in Safe Mode.
How do I exit Safe Mode?
Simply restart your computer normally, and it will exit Safe Mode.
Is Safe Mode available in all versions of Windows?
Yes, Safe Mode is a feature available in all versions of Windows, including Windows 10.
Summary
- Restart your computer while holding the Shift key.
- Select "Troubleshoot."
- Choose "Advanced options."
- Click on "Startup Settings."
- Restart your PC.
- Press the number 4 key to enable Safe Mode.
Conclusion
There you have it! Now you know how to enter Safe Mode Windows 10 from boot. Safe Mode is a fantastic tool for troubleshooting problems on your computer. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn virus, malfunctioning software, or some mysterious glitch, Safe Mode gives you the clean slate you need to diagnose and resolve these issues.
It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with these steps before you actually need them. That way, when something goes wrong, you’ll be ready to jump right in and fix it. So go ahead, try it out (you don’t have to wait for your PC to mess up!), and see how it works. Happy troubleshooting!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.