Sure thing! Let’s dive into how to boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10. This guide will make it clear and easy for you to follow along.
To boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10, you need to access the Advanced Startup Options through the Settings menu, Shift + Restart method, or using a bootable USB drive. Once there, navigate through a series of prompts to restart in Safe Mode.
Windows 10 How to Boot into Safe Mode
In this section, we’ll walk through a step-by-step process to help you boot your Windows 10 computer into Safe Mode. This mode starts your computer with a limited set of files and drivers, making it easier to troubleshoot issues.
Step 1: Open the Settings menu
To begin, click the Start button and select Settings.
Once you click on Settings, a new window should open with various options. You’ll be able to find everything related to your system’s configuration here.
Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security
In the Settings window, go to Update & Security.
This section covers everything from Windows updates to recovery options, which is what we’ll be focusing on next.
Step 3: Click on Recovery
Under Update & Security, select Recovery from the sidebar.
The Recovery section provides several options for fixing your PC, including advanced startup, which is our next step.
Step 4: Click Restart now under Advanced startup
In the Recovery section, click Restart now.
Your computer will restart and take you to the Advanced Startup Options menu. This menu is the gateway to Safe Mode.
Step 5: Select Troubleshoot
Once in the Advanced Startup Options, select Troubleshoot.
This option will take you to another menu with more advanced options for troubleshooting and repairing your PC.
Step 6: Click Advanced options
After selecting Troubleshoot, click Advanced options.
Here you’ll find various tools and options for diagnosing and fixing your computer’s problems.
Step 7: Choose Startup Settings
Within Advanced options, select Startup Settings.
This will allow you to restart your PC with different startup settings, including Safe Mode.
Step 8: Click Restart
Click the Restart button to reboot your computer.
After you click Restart, your computer will reboot and display a menu with various startup options.
Step 9: Select Safe Mode
Press the appropriate number key (usually 4) to select Safe Mode.
Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode, loading only the essential files and drivers.
Once these steps are followed, your computer will restart in Safe Mode. This limited state is ideal for troubleshooting issues because it only loads the basic files and drivers needed to run Windows.
Tips for Windows 10 How to Boot into Safe Mode
- Use MSConfig: You can also use the System Configuration tool (msconfig) to boot into Safe Mode. Open Run (Win + R), type msconfig, and go to the Boot tab to enable Safe Mode.
- Know the Difference: Safe Mode with Networking includes network drivers and services you’ll need to access the internet and other computers on your network.
- Create a Backup: Always back up important data before making significant changes to your system.
- Use Command Prompt: In some cases, you can use Command Prompt to boot into Safe Mode. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type
bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal. - Understand Limitations: Safe Mode doesn’t load third-party software, which is great for troubleshooting but means some features won’t be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I exit Safe Mode?
Restart your computer without pressing any keys during startup. It will boot back into normal mode automatically.
Can I use Safe Mode for virus removal?
Yes, Safe Mode can be effective for removing stubborn viruses since it loads minimal drivers and services.
Is Safe Mode the same as normal mode?
No, Safe Mode loads only essential drivers and services, making it useful for troubleshooting and diagnosing problems.
Can I access the internet in Safe Mode?
You can access the internet in Safe Mode with Networking, which loads necessary network drivers and services.
What if I can’t access Safe Mode?
If you can’t access Safe Mode using the usual methods, try using a bootable USB drive with Windows installation media to access recovery options.
Summary
- Open the Settings menu.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Recovery.
- Click Restart now under Advanced startup.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Click Advanced options.
- Choose Startup Settings.
- Click Restart.
- Select Safe Mode.
Conclusion
Booting into Safe Mode on Windows 10 might sound like a daunting task, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know the steps. This mode is a lifesaver when it comes to troubleshooting pesky issues that just won’t go away in normal mode. From fighting off stubborn viruses to fixing driver issues, Safe Mode strips your system down to the essentials, making problem-solving a breeze.
Remember, though, that while Safe Mode is a powerful tool, it’s not a cure-all. If you find yourself repeatedly needing to boot into Safe Mode, it might be time to dig deeper into the root cause of your computer troubles. You might want to consider additional troubleshooting steps or even seeking professional help if the issues persist.
Don’t forget to explore other troubleshooting tools and tips we mentioned, like using MSConfig or Command Prompt. And always, always back up your data before diving into advanced troubleshooting steps.
Safe Mode is like your computer’s first-aid kit, handy for emergencies but not something you should rely on every day. Use it wisely, and 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.