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How To Get In Safe Mode On Windows 10

Getting into Safe Mode on Windows 10 can be a lifesaver when you're troubleshooting computer problems. Did you know that Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows that starts with a minimal set of drivers and services? It allows you to identify and fix issues without interference from third-party applications or drivers. So, if you're facing issues like frequent crashes or blue screen errors, learning how to get to Safe Mode can be invaluable.

To get into Safe Mode on Windows 10, there are a few different methods you can try. One of the most common ways is by using the "Shift + Restart" method. This involves holding down the Shift key on your keyboard while clicking on the Restart option from the Start menu or the Power menu. This action will restart your computer into the Advanced Startup Options, where you can select the Safe Mode option to boot into the troubleshooting mode. Another method is by using the System Configuration tool, commonly known as "msconfig." By opening the Run dialog box, typing "msconfig," and selecting the Boot tab, you can enable the Safe Mode option and restart your computer to enter Safe Mode.



How To Get In Safe Mode On Windows 10

Different Ways to Get in Safe Mode on Windows 10

Safe Mode is a troubleshooting mode in Windows 10 that allows you to diagnose and fix various issues without interference from third-party applications or drivers. It can be particularly useful when your computer encounters startup problems, malware infections, or driver conflicts. In this article, we will explore different ways to access Safe Mode on Windows 10, providing you with a comprehensive guide to resolve system issues.

1. Using the Shift + Restart Method

One of the easiest ways to enter Safe Mode on Windows 10 is by using the Shift + Restart method. Follow the steps below:

  • Click on the Start menu and then on the Power button.
  • Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
  • Click Restart while still holding the Shift key.
  • Your computer will restart and present you with a menu.
  • Select Troubleshoot from the menu.
  • Click on Advanced options.
  • Select Startup Settings.
  • Click Restart.
  • After your computer restarts again, you will see a list of options.
  • Press the F4 key on your keyboard to enter Safe Mode.

This method allows you to access Safe Mode without logging into Windows 10 first. It provides a straightforward way to troubleshoot issues that may be preventing your system from starting correctly.

2. Using System Configuration (msconfig)

An alternative method to enter Safe Mode on Windows 10 is by using the System Configuration tool, also known as msconfig. Here's how:

  • Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type "msconfig" (without quotes) and press Enter.
  • The System Configuration window will open.
  • Go to the Boot tab.
  • Under the Boot options section, check the box next to Safe boot.
  • Select the type of Safe Mode you want to enter (e.g., Minimal, Network, etc.).
  • Click Apply and then OK.
  • You will be prompted to restart your computer.
  • Click Restart.
  • Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode.

This method is particularly useful if you need to frequently boot into Safe Mode, as it allows you to set the system to always start in Safe Mode until you manually disable it in the System Configuration window.

3. Using the Advanced Startup Options

If you are unable to access Safe Mode using the previous methods, you can try accessing it through the Advanced Startup Options. Follow these steps:

  • Click on the Start menu and then on the Power button.
  • Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
  • Click Restart while still holding the Shift key.
  • Your computer will restart and present you with a menu.
  • Select Troubleshoot from the menu.
  • Click on Advanced options.
  • Select Startup Settings.
  • Click Restart.
  • After your computer restarts again, you will see a list of options.
  • Press the F4 key on your keyboard to enter Safe Mode.

The Advanced Startup Options method is helpful when your system is experiencing more severe issues that prevent it from booting normally. It provides a direct path to Safe Mode without going through the Windows 10 interface.

4. Using Recovery Settings

If you are unable to access Safe Mode using the previous methods, you can try accessing it through the Recovery Settings. Here's how:

  • Click on the Start menu and then on the Settings (gear icon).
  • Select Update & Security.
  • Click on Recovery in the left-hand menu.
  • Under the Advanced startup section, click Restart now.
  • Your computer will restart and present you with a menu.
  • Select Troubleshoot from the menu.
  • Click on Advanced options.
  • Select Startup Settings.
  • Click Restart.
  • After your computer restarts again, you will see a list of options.
  • Press the F4 key on your keyboard to enter Safe Mode.

The Recovery Settings method can be helpful if you are encountering issues that are preventing your system from booting or if you are already in the Windows 10 interface and need to access Safe Mode.

Benefits of Using Safe Mode on Windows 10

Safe Mode on Windows 10 offers several benefits when it comes to troubleshooting and fixing issues with your system:

  • Troubleshooting: Safe Mode allows you to diagnose and fix problems with your computer without interference from third-party software or drivers. It provides a clean environment to identify and resolve issues.
  • Malware Removal: Safe Mode can be used to remove stubborn malware infections that may be difficult to detect or remove in normal mode. This is because Safe Mode only loads essential drivers and processes, reducing the chances of the malware executing.
  • Driver Conflict Resolution: Safe Mode can help identify and resolve driver conflicts that may be causing issues with your system's stability or performance. By entering Safe Mode, you can disable or uninstall problematic drivers.
  • System Restore: Safe Mode provides access to the System Restore feature, allowing you to roll back your computer to a previous state when it was working correctly.
  • Recovering Lost Data: If you are unable to access your files or folders in normal mode due to system errors or malware, Safe Mode can help you recover important data by granting access to the file system.

Overall, Safe Mode is a powerful tool that can help you identify and resolve various problems on your Windows 10 computer. It provides a controlled environment where you can troubleshoot without the interference of unnecessary software or drivers.

Remember to exit Safe Mode after you have completed your troubleshooting tasks by simply restarting your computer. This will allow your system to boot back into normal mode and restore full functionality.


How To Get In Safe Mode On Windows 10

How to Access Safe Mode on Windows 10

Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode in Windows 10 that allows you to troubleshoot and fix system issues. To access Safe Mode, follow these steps:

  • Click on the "Start" menu button located at the bottom left corner of your screen.
  • Click on the "Power" button. Then, press and hold the "Shift" key on your keyboard.
  • While holding the "Shift" key, click on "Restart." This will restart your computer in the Windows Recovery Environment.
  • In the Windows Recovery Environment, click on "Troubleshoot."
  • Next, click on "Advanced options."
  • Click on "Startup Settings."
  • Finally, click on "Restart."

Your computer will restart and display a list of startup options. Press the corresponding number key to enter Safe Mode with the desired options, such as network access or command prompt.


Key Takeaways: How to Get in Safe Mode on Windows 10

  • Safe Mode on Windows 10 can help troubleshoot and fix various issues.
  • To enter Safe Mode, restart your computer and press the F8 key repeatedly during startup.
  • If F8 key doesn't work, try using the Shift + Restart method to access Safe Mode.
  • In Safe Mode, only essential services and drivers are loaded, allowing you to diagnose problems.
  • Exiting Safe Mode is as simple as restarting your computer normally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Safe Mode is a useful troubleshooting feature that allows users to diagnose and fix problems with their Windows 10 operating system. In this section, we will answer some frequently asked questions about how to get into Safe Mode on Windows 10.

1. How do I boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10?

To boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10, follow these steps: 1. Click the "Start" button and select the "Settings" gear icon. 2. In the Settings menu, select "Update & Security". 3. Click on "Recovery" on the left-hand side. 4. Under the "Advanced startup" section, click the "Restart now" button. 5. Your computer will restart and show you several options. Select "Troubleshoot". 6. In the Troubleshoot menu, click on "Advanced options". 7. From the Advanced options menu, select "Startup Settings". 8. Click the "Restart" button to restart your computer. 9. After your computer restarts, a list of startup settings will appear. Press the number corresponding to "Enable Safe Mode" to boot into Safe Mode. Once you have booted into Safe Mode, you can troubleshoot issues with your Windows 10 system.

2. Can I enter Safe Mode without logging into Windows 10?

Yes, you can enter Safe Mode without logging into Windows 10. Here's how you can do it: 1. Press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard. 2. While holding the Shift key, click on the "Restart" button in the Windows login screen. 3. Your computer will restart and show you several options. Select "Troubleshoot". 4. In the Troubleshoot menu, click on "Advanced options". 5. From the Advanced options menu, select "Startup Settings". 6. Click the "Restart" button to restart your computer. 7. After your computer restarts, a list of startup settings will appear. Press the number corresponding to "Enable Safe Mode" to boot into Safe Mode. By following these steps, you can enter Safe Mode without logging into Windows 10.

3. How do I exit Safe Mode and start Windows 10 normally?

To exit Safe Mode and start Windows 10 normally, simply restart your computer. Safe Mode is meant for troubleshooting purposes and does not activate automatically upon reboot. Here's how you can exit Safe Mode: 1. Click the "Start" button and select the power icon. 2. Click "Restart" to restart your computer. 3. Windows 10 will start normally and no longer be in Safe Mode.

4. Are there any limitations to using Safe Mode on Windows 10?

While Safe Mode is a powerful tool for troubleshooting, it does come with a few limitations. In Safe Mode, certain features and drivers may be disabled, which can impact the functionality of your system. Additionally, networking capabilities may be limited, meaning you may not be able to access the internet or connect to other devices. Lastly, certain software, such as antivirus programs, may not run in Safe Mode. These limitations are necessary to ensure a stable environment for diagnosing and fixing issues with your Windows 10 system.

5. Can I access the internet in Safe Mode on Windows 10?

By default, Safe Mode with Networking is not enabled on Windows 10. This means that in the standard Safe Mode, you will not be able to access the internet. However, if you need internet access while in Safe Mode, you can enable Safe Mode with Networking by following the steps mentioned earlier and selecting the corresponding option from the list of startup settings. Enabling Safe Mode with Networking allows you to troubleshoot internet-related issues and download necessary drivers or updates while in Safe Mode.


In this guide, we have explored the steps to access Safe Mode on Windows 10. It is a useful troubleshooting tool that can help you resolve various issues with your computer. By accessing Safe Mode, you can diagnose problems, uninstall problematic software, and fix system errors.

To access Safe Mode, you can use different methods, including the Shift + Restart combination, the System Configuration tool, and the Advanced Startup options. Each method provides a straightforward way to enter Safe Mode, ensuring that you can troubleshoot your computer effectively.


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