If your Windows 10 computer is acting up, one of the best ways to troubleshoot is to boot into Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers. This makes it easier to diagnose issues. Here’s a quick guide on how to get into Safe Mode on Windows 10.
How to Get Into Safe Mode on Windows 10
In the following steps, you’ll learn how to boot your Windows 10 computer into Safe Mode. This will help you troubleshoot and potentially fix any problems you’re experiencing with your system.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Start Menu and click on the Settings gear icon.
Settings is your gateway to many of the system’s functions. You can find it by clicking on the Start Menu, which is located at the bottom-left corner of your screen. Once there, the gear icon should be easy to spot.
Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security
In the Settings window, click on Update & Security.
Update & Security is where you’ll find options related to Windows updates, recovery, and troubleshooting. This section is crucial for accessing advanced startup options.
Step 3: Click on Recovery
Under Update & Security, click on the Recovery tab.
This tab includes various recovery options, including the ability to restart your computer in advanced startup mode, which is what you need to access Safe Mode.
Step 4: Click Restart now
Under Advanced startup, click the Restart now button.
Clicking this button will restart your computer and bring up the advanced startup menu, where you can choose various boot options, including Safe Mode.
Step 5: Choose Troubleshoot
When your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, click on Troubleshoot.
The Troubleshoot option allows you to access advanced system options, which is where we’ll find the settings for Safe Mode.
Step 6: Click Advanced options
In the Troubleshoot screen, click on Advanced options.
Advanced options will provide more in-depth settings that are not available through the standard Windows interface. This is where we can make the necessary changes to boot into Safe Mode.
Step 7: Click Startup Settings
In the Advanced options screen, click on Startup Settings.
Startup Settings is where you can enable Safe Mode along with other startup options that are useful for troubleshooting.
Step 8: Click Restart
Click the Restart button to get to the Startup Settings menu.
This will reboot your computer again and bring up the Startup Settings menu, which includes several options for different types of Safe Mode.
Step 9: Enable Safe Mode
Press 4 or F4 on your keyboard to enable Safe Mode.
If you need Safe Mode with Networking or Command Prompt, press 5 or F5, and 6 or F6 respectively. This will boot your system into Safe Mode, allowing you to troubleshoot your issues.
After you complete these steps, your computer will start in Safe Mode. You’ll notice a simpler desktop, fewer icons, and reduced functionality. This is normal, as Safe Mode uses only the essential drivers and services.
Tips for Getting Into Safe Mode on Windows 10
- If your PC won’t start: You can often get into Safe Mode by turning your computer off and on three times. This will trigger the automatic repair mode.
- For regular access: Consider creating a Safe Mode shortcut on your desktop.
- Keep a recovery drive: Having a USB recovery drive can be a lifesaver if you can’t boot into Windows normally.
- Use System Configuration: You can also use the System Configuration tool (msconfig) to boot into Safe Mode.
- Know your options: There are several types of Safe Mode, so choose the one that best fits your troubleshooting needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Safe Mode?
Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows that loads only essential drivers and services.
How do I exit Safe Mode?
Simply restart your computer, and it should boot back into normal mode.
Can I use the internet in Safe Mode?
Yes, if you choose Safe Mode with Networking, you will have internet access.
Is Safe Mode safe?
Yes, Safe Mode is designed to be a secure environment for troubleshooting issues.
Why are my desktop icons missing in Safe Mode?
Safe Mode minimizes what is loaded to help diagnose issues, so fewer icons and apps will be visible.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Recovery.
- Click Restart now.
- Choose Troubleshoot.
- Click Advanced options.
- Click Startup Settings.
- Click Restart.
- Enable Safe Mode.
Conclusion
Getting into Safe Mode on Windows 10 is a straightforward but essential skill for anyone dealing with system issues. By following these steps, you can start troubleshooting your computer in an environment where only the basics are running, making it easier to identify and solve problems. Safe Mode is like a digital doctor’s office, providing a controlled space for diagnosis and repair. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn virus, driver issues, or software conflicts, knowing how to access Safe Mode can save you a lot of hassle. For more detailed troubleshooting, Microsoft’s support pages and community forums provide a wealth of information. So, next time your Windows 10 system is acting up, don’t hesitate to jump into Safe Mode and get to the root of the problem.
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.