How to restart your PC in Safe Mode

Your computer can be started in safe mode to ensure that it only runs the most important programs. Normally, a lot of drivers are loaded when your computer boots up. Drivers are programmes that enable your operating system (OS) to communicate with hardware and software. However, only the bare minimum of drivers required to run the computer are loaded when you start up in safe mode.

Windows 11/10 Safe Mode: How to boot

Safe Mode can be entered in many ways. The three simplest are:

By selecting the Power icon while Holding Shift Key

1. In the bottom-left corner, click the Windows icon.
2. Click the Power icon while holding down the Shift key. Click “Restart” while holding down the Shift key.
3. You will see a blue screen titled Choose an option after restarting your computer. Then select Troubleshoot, followed by Advanced options.
4. Restart the computer after clicking Startup Settings. The computer will turn off and on again.
5. You’ll be given a few options once the screen comes back. You can start your computer in Safe Mode by pressing 4, or you can start it in Safe Mode with internet access by pressing 5.

Safe Mode can be enabled with or without internet access.

Setting up the Settings app

1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
2. Then click Update & Security, followed by Recovery.
3. Click Restart now under Advanced startup.
4. On the Choose an option screen, your computer will restart. You can access advanced options by clicking Troubleshoot.
5. Restart after selecting Startup Settings.
6. The next time your computer boots up, you’ll see some startup options. Safe Mode can be started by pressing 4 or Safe Mode with internet access by pressing 5.

By holding down the power button

You can use this method if you are unable to boot into Windows normally.

1. To turn on your PC, press the power button.
2. Hold down the power button until you see something appearing on the screen – probably the manufacturer’s logo.
3. Turn on your PC after doing this two more times. At the bottom of the screen, you will see Preparing Automatic Repair. The Choose an option screen should eventually appear after your PC has gone through this process.
4. Choose Troubleshoot, Advanced options, and then Startup Settings. Click Restart when prompted.
5. To start the computer in Safe Mode, press 4 or 5, depending on whether you want internet access in Safe Mode.

Exiting Safe Mode

Restarting your computer is the quickest and easiest solution. Hold down the power button or go to the Start menu to do this.

If your computer is still in Safe Mode after restarting, you should:

1. To open the Run menu, press Windows key + R.
2. Enter msconfig in the text box.
3. Click Boot at the top of the System Configuration menu.
4. Under Boot options, uncheck Safe boot. Restart your computer once it is complete.

This is the menu you’re looking for. In the bottom left corner, you’ll find the uncheck button.