How to Start Safe Mode in Windows 10

Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode

Have you encountered issues with your Windows 10 operating system? Do you notice that your computer keeps freezing or crashing? If yes, then maybe it’s time to start your Windows 10 in Safe Mode. Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode meant to help you troubleshoot and repair your computer’s problems. In this article, we will guide you on how to start Safe Mode in Windows 10 and provide some tips and tricks to make the process easier.

Step-by-Step Guide to Start Safe Mode Windows 10

Starting Safe Mode in Windows 10 can be done in different ways, depending on your computer’s condition. If it’s still responsive, you can use the Settings menu, restart, or holding the Shift key while clicking the Restart button. If your computer is stuck at the login screen or not booting correctly, you can use the power button. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open the Start menu and click on the gear icon to open Windows Settings.

Step 2: In the Windows Settings menu, click on Update & Security.

Step 3: On the left corner, click on Recovery.

Step 4: Under Advanced startup, click on Restart now.

Step 5: After your computer restarts, select Troubleshoot.

Step 6: Click on Advanced options.

Step 7: Click on Startup Settings.

Step 8: Click on Restart.

Step 9: After your computer restarts again, you will see a list of options. Press 4 or F4 key to start Safe Mode.

Step 10: Once Safe Mode is enabled, you can start troubleshooting your computer’s problems.

Step 11: To exit Safe Mode, restart your computer.

Step 12: Your computer will restart normally without any issues.

Why do you need to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode?

Safe Mode does not load all the drivers and programs that your computer typically runs in a normal boot. This feature is meant to help identify and fix problems with your computer. By starting your computer in Safe Mode, you can:

– Identify if a problem is caused by the operating system or a third-party program.
– Run system diagnostics or repair tools.
– Remove recently installed programs or drivers, which may be causing problems.

Tips and Tricks to Start Safe Mode Windows 10

1. You can also use the “msconfig” command to enable Safe Mode temporarily. Open the Run dialog box and type “msconfig.” In the System Configuration window, click on the Boot tab and select Safe boot.

2. If you’re using Windows 10 on a tablet, press and hold the Volume down button while booting your tablet to start Safe Mode.

3. If your computer is not booting correctly, you can use the power button. Press and hold the power button until your computer shuts down. Then press the power button again to start your computer. Repeat this process three times, and on the fourth try, your computer will automatically start in Safe Mode.

4. While in Safe Mode, you can use System Restore to restore your computer to an earlier date when it was working correctly.

5. If you can’t boot your computer at all, you can use a Windows 10 installation media to start your computer in Safe Mode. Insert the installation media, select your language preferences, and choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart > Press 4.

6. If you’re starting Safe Mode to remove a virus or malware, run a full scan with your antivirus software after booting to Safe Mode.

7. If you’re not sure which Safe Mode option to use, try starting with Safe Mode with Networking. This option enables the network drivers and services to help you connect to the internet and download updates.

8. If you’re working on a laptop, make sure you connect it to a power source before starting Safe Mode. Safe Mode uses minimal resources, and your laptop may run out of battery power if the battery is low.

9. When in Safe Mode, your computer’s screen resolution may be lower than usual, and the icons and text may appear larger. This is normal, and the resolution will return to normal after exiting Safe Mode.

10. Always make sure to exit Safe Mode after troubleshooting your computer’s problems. Safe Mode is not meant for everyday use, and some programs and drivers may not function correctly in this mode.

Conclusion

Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode can help you identify and fix issues with your computer. It’s a diagnostic mode that loads your computer with minimal drivers and programs, making it easier to troubleshoot problems. There are different ways to start Safe Mode, depending on your computer’s condition. In this article, we provided a step-by-step guide and some tips and tricks to make the process easier. Remember to exit Safe Mode after troubleshooting and to use it only as a diagnostic tool.

How to Start Safe Mode Windows 10: Advantages and Disadvantages

Starting your Windows 10 computer in safe mode can be a troubleshooting solution for various system issues. Safe mode loads only the essential drivers and services, allowing you to diagnose and fix the problem. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of starting Safe Mode in Windows 10:

Advantages

1. Identifying and resolving software problems: Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode can help you identify software-related issues, such as problematic drivers or applications.

2. Removing malware: If your computer is infected with malware or viruses, starting in Safe Mode can help remove them. Safe mode only loads the basic programs, making it easier to detect and remove malicious files.

3. System restore: Safe Mode provides an opportunity to perform system restore if you cannot boot in normal mode.

4. Accessing Disk Management: Safe Mode can help you access Disk Management if you cannot do it in normal mode.

5. Resolving hardware related issues: Some hardware compatibility issues might cause your computer to crash. Safe mode can help you diagnose these hardware-related problems.

6. Improving performance: Safe mode can run faster since it only loads essential services and applications.

7. Cleaning up system files: Safe mode can help in cleaning your computer’s temporary files which are usually hidden during normal mode.

8. Preventing automatic software updates: Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode can prevent automatic software updates from taking place, which can sometimes interfere with your work.

9. Disconnecting peripherals: Safe mode can help you disconnect any peripherals which might be causing issues such as printers, camera, or other external devices.

10. Easy to start: Starting in Safe Mode is a straightforward process, and anyone can do it.

Disadvantages

1. Limited functionality: Safe Mode only loads basic drivers and services which might limit the functionality of your computer.

2. Not suitable for regular use: Safe Mode is not a permanent solution and not suitable for regular use since it only provides access to essential functions and services.

3. No internet access: Most of the time, your internet connection will not work in Safe Mode since it doesn’t load all the necessary drivers.

4. No sound: Often sound drivers do not load in Safe Mode, resulting in no sound.

5. Incompatible applications and programs: Some applications and programs will not work on Safe Mode since the drivers and services needed to run these applications are missing.

6. Low resolution: Safe Mode runs on low resolution and can affect the readability of texts and graphics.

7. No multi-tasking: Safe Mode doesn’t support multitasking since it loads only the basics.

8. Only for advanced users: Sometimes, troubleshooting in Safe Mode requires knowledge and expertise, making it unsuitable for novice computer users.

9. No backup: In Safe Mode, the system doesn’t create a restore point or backup, so you should be careful before making any changes.

10. File system error: If there are any file system errors on your computer, starting in Safe Mode might not always be successful and will require further actions.

Starting Safe Mode in Windows 10 can be a helpful tool to troubleshoot system issues, but it also has its limitations. It is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before choosing Safe Mode as a solution for the issue.

FAQ

1. What is Safe Mode in Windows 10?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows 10 that loads only the basic drivers and services, which helps to troubleshoot and fix any issues or problems with the system.

2. How do I start Windows 10 in Safe Mode?

Press and hold the Shift key while clicking on the “Restart” button in the Start menu. This will bring up the “Choose an option” screen where you can select “Troubleshoot” and then “Advanced options” to access the Safe Mode options.

3. Can I boot into Safe Mode without logging in to Windows?

Yes, you can. Press and hold the Shift key while restarting the system. This will bypass the login screen and take you directly to the Choose an option screen, where you can access the Safe Mode options.

4. What are the different types of Safe Mode options available in Windows 10?

There are three types of Safe Mode in Windows 10: Safe Mode, Safe Mode with Networking and Safe Mode with Command Prompt. The Safe Mode with Networking option allows you to connect to the internet, while the Safe Mode with Command Prompt option lets you access the command prompt.

5. Can I boot into Safe Mode if my keyboard is not working?

Yes, you can use the on-screen keyboard to enter the required keys to start Safe Mode. To do this, go to Settings, select Ease of Access, and then click on Keyboard. Turn on the on-screen keyboard option, and you can use it to navigate to Safe Mode.

6. How do I exit Safe Mode?

To exit Safe Mode in Windows 10, simply restart the system and allow it to boot into the normal mode.

7. Can I access Safe Mode from the Windows Recovery Environment?

Yes, you can. To access Safe Mode from the Windows Recovery Environment, select Troubleshoot, then Advanced Options, and then Startup Settings. From there, you can select Safe Mode.

8. Can I access Safe Mode without restarting the system?

No, you cannot. Safe Mode requires a restart of the system to initiate the diagnostic mode.

9. What should I do if I am unable to access Safe Mode?

If you are unable to access Safe Mode, try performing a system restore or booting from a Windows installation media. You can also seek assistance from a technical expert.

10. Will starting Windows in Safe Mode delete any of my files?

No, starting Windows in Safe Mode will not delete any of your files. However, it may prevent certain programs and drivers from functioning properly.

11. Can I use Safe Mode to remove viruses and malware?

Yes, you can. Safe Mode can be used to remove viruses and malware that may be interfering with the normal functioning of the system. However, it is recommended to use a reputable antivirus software for better results.

12. Can I revert back to my previous settings after starting Windows in Safe Mode?

Yes, you can. After exiting Safe Mode, the system will revert back to the previously selected settings.

13. Is it recommended to regularly start Windows in Safe Mode?

No, it is not recommended to regularly start Windows in Safe Mode, as it limits the functionality of the system. Safe Mode should only be used when troubleshooting issues or fixing problems with the system.

How to Start Safe Mode Windows 10

Safe mode is a useful troubleshooting tool in Windows 10 that allows you to start your computer with a minimal set of drivers and services. This helps to isolate and identify software or hardware problems that may be causing your system to fail. In this article, we’ll show you how to start safe mode in Windows 10, so you can troubleshoot and resolve any issues that you may be experiencing.

Conclusion

Starting safe mode in Windows 10 can help you diagnose problems and troubleshoot your system in a more streamlined way. By following the steps we’ve outlined above, you should be able to enter safe mode and begin identifying and resolving any issues that may be causing your system to fail. Remember to take your time, be patient, and stay focused on the task at hand. With these tips in mind, you should be able to get your system back up and running in no time!

Closing

Thank you for reading our article on how to start safe mode in Windows 10. We hope that you found the information helpful, and that you’re able to use this knowledge to troubleshoot and resolve any issues that you may be experiencing with your system. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. We’re always here to help, and we look forward to hearing from you soon. Until then, take care and happy computing!