How to Start Your PC in Safe Mode

What Safe Mode Does and When to Use It

Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup option that loads Windows with only the bare minimum drivers and programs needed to run your computer. When you start in Safe Mode, Windows skips most of the software that normally loads at startup — including third-party apps, some drivers, and background services. This stripped-down environment lets you troubleshoot problems, remove malware, or fix settings without interference from programs that might be causing crashes or slowdowns.

Use Safe Mode when your PC won't start normally, when you suspect malware or a bad driver is causing problems, or when you need to uninstall software that won't cooperate in regular Windows. Safe Mode also gives you access to Windows tools and settings that might be blocked by a malfunctioning program.

Key Takeaways

On Windows 10 and 11, press the Windows key and I together to open Settings, then go to System > Recovery and select Restart now under Advanced startup.
If your PC won't start at all, restart it and press F8 or Shift+F8 repeatedly as it boots to reach the Advanced Boot Options menu.
Safe Mode with Networking includes internet drivers so you can read tools or search for solutions while troubleshooting.
Once you finish troubleshooting, restart your PC normally — Safe Mode is temporary and does not change your files or settings permanently.
If you cannot reach Safe Mode through normal startup, you may need to use a Windows installation disc or USB drive to access recovery options.

Safe Mode Launch from Settings (Windows 10 and 11)

The easiest route on a working PC is through the Settings app. Press the Windows key (the key with the Windows logo) and I at the same time to open Settings. On the left side, click System, then scroll down and click Recovery.

Under the "Advanced startup" section, click the blue Restart now button. Your PC will restart and show you a menu with several options. Click Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, then Startup Settings. You will see a list of startup modes. Press 4 on your keyboard to select Safe Mode, or press 5 for Safe Mode with Networking (which includes internet drivers). Your PC will restart into Safe Mode.

Safe Mode Launch Using the Boot Menu (When Windows Won't Start)

If your PC won't start normally or you cannot reach Settings, use the boot menu instead. Restart your computer. As soon as it begins to restart — before the Windows logo appears — press F8 or Shift+F8 repeatedly, about once per second. You may need to try several times to catch the right moment.

The Advanced Boot Options menu will appear with a list of startup choices. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to highlight Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking, then press Enter. Your PC will load into Safe Mode. This method works on most Windows versions, though the exact timing and key vary slightly between machines.

Understanding the Three Safe Mode Variants

Safe Mode loads only essential Windows drivers and services. Use this when you need to remove malware, uninstall a problematic program, or access Windows tools without any extra software running in the background.

Safe Mode with Networking includes network and internet drivers, so you can connect to Wi-Fi or Ethernet and read tools, search for solutions, or contact support. Choose this if you need internet access while troubleshooting.

Safe Mode with Command Prompt opens a command-line interface instead of the normal Windows desktop. This is for advanced users who need to run specific commands to repair system files or diagnose problems. Most home users will not need this option.

What to Do Once You Are in Safe Mode

Once Safe Mode loads, you will see "Safe Mode" in the corners of your screen to confirm you are running in this limited state. Your desktop will look mostly normal, but many programs will not run and some features will be unavailable — this is expected.

From here, you can uninstall programs by going to Settings > Apps > Apps and features, run antivirus scans, delete temporary files, or access Windows troubleshooting tools. If you are trying to remove malware, read and run a dedicated malware scanner like Malwarebytes while in Safe Mode, since malware often cannot defend itself when fewer programs are running.

Do not install new software or make major changes to Windows settings while in Safe Mode. Make only the repairs or removals you came to do, then restart your PC normally.

Returning to Normal Windows

When you finish troubleshooting, straightforward restart your PC. It will boot back into regular Windows mode automatically. Safe Mode is not permanent — it is a temporary diagnostic state. Restarting always returns you to normal startup.

If your PC still has problems after you exit Safe Mode, the issue may be with hardware rather than software, or it may require more advanced repair steps. Write down any error messages you see and search for them online, or contact a technician with the details of what you tried.

Troubleshooting Safe Mode Launch Problems

If you press F8 or Shift+F8 and nothing happens, your PC may have Fast Startup enabled, which skips the boot menu. Turn off Fast Startup by going to Settings > System > Power and sleep > Additional power settings, clicking "Choose what the power button does," then unchecking "Turn on fast startup." Restart and try F8 again.

If Safe Mode itself will not load or keeps crashing, you may have a hardware problem or a corrupted Windows file. In this case, you will need a Windows installation disc or USB drive to access recovery options. Insert the disc or USB, restart your PC, and boot from it (you may need to press F12, Del, or Esc during startup to choose the boot device). From the Windows setup screen, choose "Repair your computer" to access more advanced recovery tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my printer or other devices in Safe Mode?

Most printers and external devices will not work in Safe Mode because their drivers are not loaded. If you need to use a specific device while troubleshooting, use Safe Mode with Networking instead, which loads more drivers. Some devices may still not work — this is normal and does not mean they are broken.

Will Safe Mode delete my files or change my settings?

No. Safe Mode is read-only for most of Windows. Your files, photos, and documents remain untouched. Any changes you make — like uninstalling a program or deleting a file — will stick, but Safe Mode itself does not alter anything automatically when you restart.

How long can I stay in Safe Mode?

You can stay in Safe Mode as long as you need to troubleshoot. There is no time limit. However, Safe Mode is not meant for everyday use — many programs will not run, and performance is slower. Return to normal Windows once you have finished your repairs.

What if I cannot remember which key to press to enter Safe Mode?

Use the Settings method instead. Open Settings, go to System > Recovery, and click Restart now under Advanced startup. This works on any Windows 10 or 11 PC that can start normally, and you do not need to remember any keyboard shortcuts.

Is Safe Mode the same as a factory reset?

No. Safe Mode is temporary and does not change your PC. A factory reset erases everything and reinstalls Windows from scratch. Safe Mode is much safer to try first — it lets you troubleshoot without losing your files.

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.