To boot into safe mode on a Windows computer, there are several methods depending on the situation:
- During startup, repeatedly press the F8 key before the Windows logo appears to access the "Advanced Boot Options" menu and select Safe Mode.
- From within Windows, hold the Shift key and click Restart from the Start menu or the login screen, which will take you to the Advanced Startup Options to choose Safe Mode.
- Use the System Configuration utility (msconfig):
- Press Win + R, type "msconfig" and press Enter.
- Go to the Boot tab, check "Safe boot," and restart the computer.
- If the computer won't boot normally, boot from Windows installation media or recovery drive, select "Repair your computer," then navigate Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings, and restart to select Safe Mode.
- You can also access safe mode after multiple failed boot attempts, triggering Automatic Repair mode, and then following advanced options to startup settings.
Safe Mode options may include:
- Standard Safe Mode
- Safe Mode with Networking (internet access)
- Safe Mode with Command Prompt
These methods apply mostly to Windows 10 and 11, with some differences in Windows 7 where the F8 method is commonly used. Macs also have a different way to enter Safe Mode using the Shift key during startup. This variety of options ensures safe mode can be accessed in different situations, whether the system is responsive or not.
