How to Boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode

Whether you’re troubleshooting a stubborn error, removing malware, or trying to fix driver conflicts, booting your Windows 10 computer into Safe Mode is one of the most powerful ways to diagnose problems. Safe Mode launches your computer with only the most essential files and drivers, helping you bypass issues that might be stopping your system from functioning normally.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore five easy and effective methods to boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode. We’ve also included a bonus section on how to exit Safe Mode and return to Normal Mode once you’re done.

Let’s dive in.

What Is Safe Mode in Windows 10?

Safe Mode is a special startup mode in Windows that loads the operating system with only a minimal set of drivers and services. It disables third-party applications, background processes, and startup programs. This stripped-down environment helps identify whether the default settings and basic device drivers are causing the issue.

There are typically three variations of Safe Mode:

• Safe Mode: Loads the OS with the most basic drivers.
• Safe Mode with Networking: Adds network drivers and services.
• Safe Mode with Command Prompt: Opens the Command Prompt instead of the usual Windows interface.

Boot Into Safe Mode in Windows 10 – 5 Methods

Below are five different methods to enter Safe Mode in Windows 10. You can choose the one that best suits your situation, whether your system is running normally, crashing during startup, or you have installation media on hand.

Method 1: Using System Configuration (msconfig)

This is one of the simplest methods and works when you can log into your system normally.

Step 1: Open System Configuration

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
• Type msconfig and hit Enter.
• The System Configuration window will open.

Step 2: Enable Safe Mode

• In the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.
• Under Boot options, check the box labeled Safe boot.
• You can choose from four options:
  • Minimal (standard Safe Mode)
  • Alternate shell (Safe Mode with Command Prompt)
  • Network (Safe Mode with Networking)
  • Active Directory repair (for domain controllers)

Step 3: Apply Changes & Restart

• Click Apply, then OK.
• You will be prompted to Restart now or Exit without restart.
• Click Restart now to immediately reboot into Safe Mode.

Method 2: Using Shift + Restart

This is a fast method that doesn’t require you to log in or navigate the Control Panel.

Step 1: Open Settings

• Click on the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon).
• Go to Update & Security > Recovery.

Step 2: Restart Your Computer

• Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

Step 3: Navigate to Recovery

• When your PC restarts, you’ll see a Choose an option screen.
• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.

Step 4: Select Startup Settings

• Click Restart on the Startup Settings screen.
• When the options appear, press the appropriate key:
  • Press 4 or F4 to enable Safe Mode.
  • Press 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.
  • Press 6 or F6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

Method 3: Using the Sign-in Screen

If your system is stuck on the login screen or you’re unable to get past the lock screen, this method will help.

Step 1: Access the Power Options

• On the login screen, click on the Power icon at the bottom right corner.

Step 2: Restart with Shift

• Hold down the Shift key and click Restart.

Step 3: Access the Startup Settings

• Your computer will restart to the Choose an option screen.
• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
• Click Restart, then choose your preferred Safe Mode type.

Method 4: Advanced Startup (WinRE)

If your computer fails to boot properly three times in a row, it should automatically boot into the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

Step 1: Interrupt Boot Process

• Force shutdown your PC while it’s booting (hold the power button until it turns off).
• Repeat this process three times.

Step 2: Access Advanced Startup

• On the third attempt, Windows will load into Advanced Startup.

Step 3: Choose Safe Mode

• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
• Click Restart.
• Once the system reboots, press 4, 5, or 6 to enter the appropriate Safe Mode.

Method 5: Using Windows 10 Installation USB/DVD

If your system won’t boot and none of the above methods work, using installation media is the way to go.

Step 1: Create Installation Media

• Use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive or DVD.
• You can download it from the official Windows 10 website on a working PC.

Step 2: Boot from USB/DVD

• Insert the installation media and restart your PC.
• Press the appropriate key (often F2, F12, Esc, or Del) to open the Boot Menu.
• Choose your USB/DVD to boot from it.

Step 3: Access Repair Options

• On the Windows Setup screen, click Next, then select Repair your computer.

Step 4: Choose Safe Mode

• Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.
• In the Command Prompt window, type:bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal
• Press Enter, then close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.

Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode.

How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 10

Once you’ve finished troubleshooting, you’ll want to exit Safe Mode and return to normal startup.

Steps to Exit Safe Mode:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type msconfig and press Enter.
3. In the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.
4. Uncheck the box next to Safe boot.
5. Click Apply, then OK.
6. Restart your computer.

Your system will now boot normally.

When Should You Use Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is incredibly useful in various scenarios, such as:

• Removing malware or viruses
• Troubleshooting startup issues
• Uninstalling problematic drivers or updates
• Performing system restores
• Fixing corrupted files

If you’re ever in doubt about what’s wrong with your system, Safe Mode is a great place to start investigating.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to boot into Safe Mode is an essential skill for any Windows 10 user. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or just someone trying to fix their PC, these methods will help you gain control over a malfunctioning system. From using simple tools like msconfig to leveraging installation media, there’s a method that fits every situation.

Remember to always exit Safe Mode properly to avoid booting into it every time. Troubleshooting doesn’t have to be a nightmare—just a few steps and you’re on your way to resolving issues confidently.

If you found this guide helpful, consider bookmarking it for future reference. Safe Mode might not be flashy, but it sure is powerful.