Booting your Windows 10 computer in Safe Mode can help troubleshoot issues by loading only the essential drivers and services. Follow these steps to boot into Safe Mode and diagnose problems with your system.
How to Boot in Safe Mode Windows 10
Booting into Safe Mode Windows 10 helps resolve various system issues. This mode loads minimal drivers and services, making it easier to identify and fix problems.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, click on the Start button and select Settings.
Opening the Settings menu is the easiest way to access more advanced startup options. You can also use the keyboard shortcut Windows + I.
Step 2: Navigate to Update & Security
Next, in the Settings window, click on Update & Security.
This section contains various recovery options and tools, including those needed to boot into Safe Mode.
Step 3: Go to Recovery
Click on the Recovery option in the left panel.
The Recovery section provides different methods for troubleshooting and restoring your system.
Step 4: Click Restart Now under Advanced Startup
Under the Advanced Startup section, click on the Restart Now button.
This action will reboot your computer and open a menu with various startup options, including Safe Mode.
Step 5: Choose Troubleshoot
After the restart, select the Troubleshoot option.
The Troubleshoot menu provides access to additional tools and settings to help fix your system.
Step 6: Click Advanced Options
In the Troubleshoot menu, click on Advanced Options.
The Advanced Options menu contains the settings needed to boot into Safe Mode.
Step 7: Select Startup Settings
Click on Startup Settings.
This option allows you to change various startup behaviors, including enabling Safe Mode.
Step 8: Click Restart
Click on the Restart button.
This will reboot your computer again, presenting you with a new set of options.
Step 9: Choose Safe Mode Option
Press F4 to boot into Safe Mode, F5 for Safe Mode with Networking, or F6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
After pressing the appropriate key, your computer will boot into the selected Safe Mode option.
After completing these steps, your Windows 10 computer will boot into Safe Mode. In this environment, you can troubleshoot and fix system issues without interference from non-essential software and drivers.
Tips for Booting in Safe Mode Windows 10
- Create a Recovery Drive: Having a recovery drive can make it easier to access Safe Mode if your system won’t boot normally.
- Know Your Options: Understand the differences between Safe Mode, Safe Mode with Networking, and Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
- Use System Restore: If troubleshooting in Safe Mode, consider using System Restore to roll back to a previous system state.
- Keep Drivers Updated: Ensuring your drivers are up-to-date can prevent many issues that require Safe Mode troubleshooting.
- Backup Regularly: Regular backups ensure you can recover your data and system settings if things go wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I exit Safe Mode?
Simply restart your computer, and it will boot back into normal mode.
Can I use the internet in Safe Mode?
Yes, if you select Safe Mode with Networking, you will have internet access.
Will Safe Mode delete my files?
No, booting into Safe Mode does not delete any files.
Can I install drivers in Safe Mode?
It’s possible, but not recommended. It’s best to install drivers in normal mode.
What if Safe Mode doesn’t fix the problem?
Consider using System Restore, performing a clean boot, or seeking professional help.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Go to Recovery.
- Click Restart Now under Advanced Startup.
- Choose Troubleshoot.
- Click Advanced Options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Click Restart.
- Choose Safe Mode Option.
Conclusion
Booting in Safe Mode Windows 10 is a powerful tool for troubleshooting your computer. By following the steps laid out in this guide, you can easily access Safe Mode and diagnose any issues your system might be experiencing. Whether it’s a stubborn software problem or a driver conflict, Safe Mode provides a minimalistic environment that makes problem-solving much simpler.
Remember, regular maintenance like updating drivers and creating backups can prevent many problems. If you ever find yourself in a situation where your computer won’t boot normally, you now have the knowledge to troubleshoot effectively. For more detailed guides and tips, keep this article handy, and don’t hesitate to share it with others who might find it useful.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.