How to Start Windows 10 in Safe Mode | A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Windows 10 is an operating system that powers a wide range of computers and devices. It’s designed to be stable, reliable, and secure, but sometimes problems can occur. When this happens, it’s often necessary to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode to diagnose and fix the issue. But what exactly is Windows 10 Safe Mode and how do you access it?

What is Windows 10 Safe Mode?

Windows 10 Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode that allows you to access Windows with limited features and drivers. It’s used to troubleshoot issues with your computer, as it prevents any third-party programs from running and only loads the essential drivers needed for the operating system to function. As such, it’s a great way to diagnose and fix problems with your computer.

Why Use Windows 10 Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is a useful tool for diagnosing and fixing problems with your computer. It’s particularly helpful if you’re experiencing issues with your computer’s performance or stability, as it eliminates any non-essential drivers and programs that could be causing the problem. In addition, Safe Mode can help you recover data from a failing hard drive, as well as remove viruses or malicious software.

How to Start Windows 10 in Safe Mode

There are several different ways to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode. We’ll explore each of these methods in detail below.

Use the Advanced Startup Options Menu

The Advanced Startup Options menu is a powerful tool that allows you to access various startup and recovery tools, including Safe Mode. Here’s how to use it:

Accessing the Advanced Startup Options Menu

To access the Advanced Startup Options menu, first press Windows + I to open the Settings app. Then click “Update & Security” and select “Recovery” from the left sidebar. Under the “Advanced startup” section, click the “Restart now” button.

Using the Advanced Startup Options Menu

Once the Advanced Startup Options menu appears, select “Troubleshoot” and then “Advanced options.” Finally, select “Startup Settings” and click “Restart.” On the next screen, press “F4” to boot into Safe Mode.

Utilize Windows 10’s System Configuration Utility

Another way to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode is by using the System Configuration utility. Here’s how to use it:

Accessing the System Configuration Utility

To access the System Configuration utility, press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Then type “msconfig” and press Enter.

Using the System Configuration Utility

In the System Configuration window, click the “Boot” tab and check the “Safe Boot” option. Then click “OK” and restart your computer. This will boot your computer into Safe Mode.

Boot from a Windows 10 Installation Media

You can also start Windows 10 in Safe Mode by booting from an installation media. Here’s how to do it:

Creating an Installation Media

First, you’ll need to create an installation media. To do this, download the Windows 10 ISO file from Microsoft’s website and burn it to a USB drive or DVD.

Booting from the Installation Media

Once you’ve created the installation media, insert it into your computer and reboot. Then follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10. During the installation process, select “Repair Your Computer” and then “Troubleshoot” to access the Advanced Startup Options menu. From there, select “Startup Settings” and press “F4” to boot into Safe Mode.

Use the Shift Key Method

Another way to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode is by using the Shift key method. Here’s how to do it:

Initiating the Shift Key Method

To initiate the Shift key method, press Shift + Restart while your computer is powered on. This will launch the Advanced Startup Options menu.

Using the Shift Key Method

From the Advanced Startup Options menu, select “Troubleshoot” and then “Advanced options.” Finally, select “Startup Settings” and click “Restart.” On the next screen, press “F4” to boot into Safe Mode.

Enable Safe Mode with Networking via Command Prompt

You can also start Windows 10 in Safe Mode with networking enabled via the Command Prompt. Here’s how to do it:

Accessing the Command Prompt

To access the Command Prompt, press Windows + X to open the Power User menu. Then select “Command Prompt (Admin).”

Using the Command Prompt

In the Command Prompt window, type “bcdedit /set {default} safeboot network” and press Enter. This will enable Safe Mode with networking enabled. Then type “shutdown /r” and press Enter to restart your computer in Safe Mode.

Use the Troubleshoot Menu

You can also start Windows 10 in Safe Mode using the Troubleshoot menu. Here’s how to do it:

Accessing the Troubleshoot Menu

To access the Troubleshoot menu, press Windows + I to open the Settings app. Then click “Update & Security” and select “Recovery” from the left sidebar. Under the “Advanced startup” section, click the “Restart now” button.

Using the Troubleshoot Menu

Once the Advanced Startup Options menu appears, select “Troubleshoot” and then “Advanced options.” Finally, select “Startup Settings” and click “Restart.” On the next screen, press “F4” to boot into Safe Mode.

Enable F8 Key Support in Windows 10

Finally, you can start Windows 10 in Safe Mode by enabling F8 key support. Here’s how to do it:

Enabling the F8 Key

To enable the F8 key, press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box. Then type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.

Using the F8 Key

In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\. Then double-click the “CMDLINE” value and add “/safeboot:minimal” at the end. Finally, save the changes and reboot your computer. This will boot your computer into Safe Mode.

Conclusion

In conclusion, starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode is a great way to diagnose and fix problems with your computer. There are several different ways to do this, including using the Advanced Startup Options menu, System Configuration utility, installation media, Shift key method, Command Prompt, Troubleshoot menu, and F8 key. Whichever method you choose, you’ll be able to access Windows 10 in Safe Mode and begin troubleshooting your computer.