How to Exit Safe Mode on Windows and Get Your PC Running Normally

The fastest way out of Safe Mode

Safe Mode is a stripped-down version of Windows that loads only essential drivers and programs. Your PC enters it when Windows detects a problem, or when you force it to start that way. To exit Safe Mode, restart your computer normally — Windows will boot into regular mode on the next startup in most cases.

If that does not work, you need to check whether Safe Mode is set to load automatically. Windows can be configured to stay in Safe Mode until you manually turn it off, which requires a few extra steps depending on your Windows version.

Key Takeaways

A straightforward restart usually exits Safe Mode, because Windows loads normally on the next boot unless a startup problem forces it back.
If Safe Mode persists after restart, open System Configuration and uncheck the Safe Boot option under the Boot tab.
On Windows 11 and 10, you can also reach the same setting through Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup options.
If your PC keeps returning to Safe Mode after restart, a virus, corrupted driver, or failed Windows update may be forcing it, and you may need to troubleshoot the underlying cause.

Restart your PC to exit Safe Mode

The simplest exit is a normal restart. Click the Start button, select Power, and choose Restart. When your PC boots back up, it should load Windows in regular mode.

This works because Safe Mode is usually temporary — Windows enters it to fix a problem, and once you restart, it tries normal startup again. If the problem that triggered Safe Mode is gone, Windows stays in regular mode. If the problem is still there, Safe Mode may load again automatically.

Disable Safe Boot in System Configuration

If your PC keeps returning to Safe Mode after restart, Safe Boot is likely enabled in System Configuration. This setting forces Windows to load Safe Mode on every startup until you turn it off.

Open System Configuration by pressing Windows key + R, typing msconfig, and pressing Enter. Click the Boot tab. Under Boot options, uncheck the box next to Safe boot. Click explore, then OK. Windows will ask you to restart — click Restart, and your PC will boot into regular mode.

After restart, Safe Mode should not load again unless Windows detects a new problem. If it does, the issue causing Safe Mode to trigger is still present and needs troubleshooting.

Use Settings to disable Safe Mode on Windows 10 and 11

Windows 10 and 11 also let you disable Safe Mode through the Settings app. Open Settings, go to System, then select Recovery. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

Your PC will restart into the Windows Recovery Environment. Select Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, then Startup Settings. Click Restart. When your PC reboots, you will see a menu of startup options. Press 6 or F6 to exit Safe Mode and boot into regular Windows.

This route takes longer than System Configuration but reaches the same result. Use it if System Configuration does not open or if you prefer the Settings interface.

What to do if Safe Mode keeps returning

If your PC exits Safe Mode but returns to it on the next restart, something is preventing Windows from starting normally. Common causes include a virus or malware, a corrupted driver, a failed Windows update, or a hardware failure.

Run a full antivirus scan while in Safe Mode — Safe Mode blocks most malware from running, making it easier to detect and remove infections. If the scan finds nothing, check Device Manager for drivers with warning symbols (yellow triangles). Right-click any flagged driver and select Uninstall device, then restart. Windows will reinstall the driver on the next boot.

If neither step works, your PC may have a failed Windows update. In Safe Mode, open Settings, go to System > Recovery, and select Reset this PC. Choose Keep my files to preserve your documents while removing recent updates and system changes. This usually resolves update-related Safe Mode loops.

Safe Mode with Networking and Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Windows offers two variations of Safe Mode: Safe Mode with Networking (which includes internet drivers) and Safe Mode with Command Prompt (which opens a text interface instead of the desktop). Both exit the same way as regular Safe Mode — disable Safe Boot in System Configuration or use the Startup Settings menu.

If you are in Safe Mode with Networking or Command Prompt and want to return to regular Windows, follow the System Configuration steps above. The Safe Boot checkbox controls all three Safe Mode variants, so unchecking it will boot you into normal Windows regardless of which Safe Mode version you are in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my PC enter Safe Mode in the first place?

Windows enters Safe Mode when it detects a startup problem — usually a virus, corrupted driver, failed update, or hardware issue. Safe Mode loads only essential files so you can troubleshoot without interference. Check your antivirus software and Windows Update history to identify what triggered it.

Will restarting my PC delete my files?

No. Restarting your PC does not delete files. It only changes which version of Windows loads. Your documents, photos, and programs remain untouched whether you are in Safe Mode or regular mode.

What if System Configuration will not open?

If pressing Windows key + R does not work, try right-clicking the Start button and selecting Run, or search for "Run" in the Start menu. If that fails, restart into Safe Mode with Command Prompt and type msconfig at the command prompt. If your PC will not boot at all, you may need to use Windows Recovery Media or contact a technician.

Is it safe to disable Safe Boot?

Yes. Disabling Safe Boot straightforward tells Windows to try normal startup on the next restart. If a problem still exists, Windows may enter Safe Mode again automatically. Disabling Safe Boot does not prevent Windows from protecting itself.

Can I use my PC normally while in Safe Mode?

Safe Mode works, but slowly and with limited features. Internet may not work, printers may not connect, and some programs will not run. It is designed for troubleshooting, not daily use. Exit Safe Mode as soon as you can to restore full functionality.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.