Restarting Windows 11 in Safe Mode is a handy trick when something’s gone wrong with your PC. Safe Mode lets you diagnose issues by starting Windows with only the most essential drivers and services. Here’s a quick guide on how to do it: you’ll need to access the recovery environment, then pick Safe Mode from the list of options.
How to Restart Windows 11 in Safe Mode
The steps below will show you how to restart your Windows 11 computer in Safe Mode. Following these steps ensures that your computer starts up with minimal software and drivers, which can help you troubleshoot and fix various issues.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen to open the Start Menu.
You can also use the Windows key on your keyboard to quickly open the Start Menu without using your mouse.
Step 2: Open Settings
Select the Settings icon (shaped like a gear) from the Start Menu.
Settings is where you control various aspects of your computer, and it’s crucial for accessing the recovery options.
Step 3: Go to Update & Security
In the Settings window, choose the “Update & Security” option.
This section includes options for system recovery, which you’ll need to access to restart in Safe Mode.
Step 4: Access Recovery Options
In the “Update & Security” menu, select “Recovery” from the list on the left.
Within the Recovery section, you’ll find options to restart your PC, which includes rebooting into Safe Mode.
Step 5: Click Restart Now
Under the Advanced startup section, click the “Restart now” button.
Your computer will reboot and take you to a special menu with various startup options.
Step 6: Choose Troubleshoot
After your PC restarts, click on the “Troubleshoot” option from the blue screen menu.
This menu is part of the Windows Recovery Environment, which helps you diagnose and fix issues.
Step 7: Select Advanced Options
From the Troubleshoot menu, click on “Advanced options.”
Advanced options give you more detailed settings and recovery choices, including booting into Safe Mode.
Step 8: Go to Startup Settings
In the Advanced options menu, select “Startup Settings.”
Startup Settings offer different ways to start Windows, including Safe Mode.
Step 9: Click Restart
Click the “Restart” button so your computer restarts again.
This restart prepares your PC to display the Startup Settings menu.
Step 10: Enable Safe Mode
Once your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Press the F4 key to start Windows in Safe Mode.
Congratulations! Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode, allowing you to troubleshoot issues safely.
After completing these steps, your computer will start in Safe Mode. You’ll notice a simpler interface and limited functionality, which is perfect for diagnosing problems.
Tips for Restarting Windows 11 in Safe Mode
- Backup Important Files: Always backup your important files before making significant changes or troubleshooting.
- Know Your Password: You might need to log back in with your password, so make sure you remember it.
- Disable Security Software: Sometimes, antivirus programs can interfere with Safe Mode, so consider disabling them temporarily.
- Use Minimal Drivers: Safe Mode uses minimal drivers; if you need internet access, choose Safe Mode with Networking.
- Exit Safe Mode: To exit Safe Mode, simply restart your computer normally.
Frequently Asked Questions about Restarting Windows 11 in Safe Mode
What is Safe Mode?
Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode in Windows that loads only essential drivers and services.
Why would I need to use Safe Mode?
You might use Safe Mode to troubleshoot software issues, remove malware, or fix driver problems.
How do I know I’m in Safe Mode?
You’ll see the words “Safe Mode” in the corners of your screen, and the display will look simpler.
Can I access the internet in Safe Mode?
Yes, if you choose Safe Mode with Networking, you can access the internet.
How do I get out of Safe Mode?
To exit Safe Mode, just restart your computer normally.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu – Start Menu access.
- Open Settings – Settings icon.
- Go to Update & Security – Choose Update & Security.
- Access Recovery Options – Select Recovery.
- Click Restart Now – Restart from Advanced startup.
- Choose Troubleshoot – Select Troubleshoot.
- Select Advanced Options – Click on Advanced options.
- Go to Startup Settings – Select Startup Settings.
- Click Restart – Restart again.
- Enable Safe Mode – Press F4 for Safe Mode.
Conclusion
Restarting Windows 11 in Safe Mode can seem like a daunting task, but it’s quite straightforward if you follow the steps outlined above. Safe Mode is an essential tool for troubleshooting and fixing various computer issues without the interference of unnecessary software and drivers. Remember, Safe Mode is your first go-to when your system starts acting up, whether it’s because of a faulty driver, software conflict, or malware issue.
Don’t fret if this seems complex at first; once you’ve done it a couple of times, it becomes second nature. Safe Mode is like that secret tool in your toolbox that you hope you never have to use, but you’re glad it’s there when you need it. So, don’t hesitate to give it a shot the next time your Windows 11 PC gives you trouble. Happy troubleshooting!
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.