How to start or boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode

[javajolt]

Windows 10 Safe Mode loads the operating system with a minimal set of system files and device drivers – just enough to boot the Windows OS. In Safe Mode, the startup programs, add-ons, etc, do not run. We usually boot into Safe Mode, when we need to troubleshoot issues. This post will show you how to enable and start or boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode. There maybe other ways, but we will cover only 2 of the most convenient ways.

Boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode

1] Using Advanced Startup Options

The easiest way to boot Windows 10 into Safe Mode, would be to press Shift and then click on Restart. This will reboot your Windows 10 computer into Advanced Startup Options.



Alternatively, open the Settings app > Update & Security > Recovery. Under Advanced startup, click on Restart now.



When you follow any of the two methods mentioned, your Windows 10 computer will restart, and you will see the following screen.



Click on Troubleshoot to proceed.

Now follow the steps laid down in Advanced Startup options in Windows 10. It will take you through the entire process starting with – Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart > Press No 4 key.

If you have followed the procedure correctly, you will finally reach Startup Settings screen, from where you will be able to enable Safe Mode.



Press the ‘4’ key and your computer will restart and enter Safe Mode. To reboot in Safe Mode with Networking, press ‘5’ key. To reboot in Safe Mode with Command Prompt, press the ‘6’ key.



You will see a black desktop with a Safe Mode watermark in the bottom left and right sides.

2] Using System Configuration Utility

The other simple way, of course is by using the built-in System Configuration Utility. From the Win+X Menu, open Run box, type msconfig and hit Enter.

Under the Boot tab check the Safe boot and Minimal options. Click Apply/OK and exit. On restart, your computer will enter Safe Mode directly.



You can now work in the Safe Mode.

Before you exit, remember to open msconfig and uncheck the Safe boot checkbox, click Apply/OK and then on Restart, so that on reboot, you computer will not again boot in safe mode – but instead will boot to your desktop.

twc