[Guide] How To Launch Windows 10 Safe Mode From Boot

[Guide] How To Launch Windows 10 Safe Mode From Boot

/ Shayne Sherman

What is Safe Mode in Windows 10?

Safe Mode in Windows 10 is a diagnostic mode of the operating system that enables you to troubleshoot any issues with your computer. It starts up your PC with only essential services and drivers so that you can resolve problems more quickly.

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Once in Safe Mode, it’s easier to identify potential causes for errors and disable non-essential applications or services that might be contributing to them. You can also use Safe Mode to access System Restore or remove malicious programs from your device. It can also help diagnose hardware problems or compatibility issues between software and hardware components.

Safe Mode with F8 Key at Startup

One can always use the startup settings to launch Windows 10 in Safe Mode or enable safe Mode. The easiest way to reach the setting is via the F8 shortcut key, which can help load windows in safe Mode. The function only works if the F8 key is enabled from Windows settings. Here is how you can enable the shortcut key to get safe mode windows 10 from the boot.

Step 1: Launch the command prompt from the Windows main menu. Type cmd in the taskbar’s search box and select the option from the list. Click run as administrator to launch the utility.

run command prompt administrator

Step 2: In the command prompt window, type the following command and click enter to continue. This will enable the F8 key. Reboot the device to get windows in safe Mode.

bcdedit /set {default} bootmenupolicy legacy

bcedit bootmenupolicy

Step 3: Completely shut down the device, i.e., from the Windows icon in the main menu, navigate to the power options, and click shutdown.

Step 4: Switch on the device and press the F8 key repeatedly to get the boot options menu on the screen.

Step 5: in the boot options window, select the safe mode option and click enter to choose the option. The device will launch the operating system (windows 10) in safe Mode.

safemode in bios

Safe Mode by Interrupting the Normal Boot Sequence 3 Times

If F8 short key is not enabled on the device to get the WindowsSafesafe Mode, then interrupting the normal boot mechanism from the power button can also help you get the boot tab to select the safe mode option. In this context, one can reach the safe mode option through advanced startup or advanced option. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Turn off the device from the power options in the main menu. Switch on the device from the power button, and as soon as the windows start loading, press and hold the power button for about 4-5 seconds. Repeat the process three times.

Step 2: Let the device turn on entirely in the fourth round, and it will launch the automatic repair mode. Let Windows diagnose the device.

Step 3: In the startup repair window, select the advanced options option followed by selecting troubleshoot.

advanced options troubleshoot

Step 4: In the troubleshooting window, click Advanced options followed by the option of startup settings.

startup settings restart option

Step 5: In startup settings, click restart. As the device restarts, either click the 4 key or 5 key to enter safe mode without the internet or with the internet, respectively.

Step 6: In the last step, click the option to enable safe Mode.

startup settings enable safemode

Safe Mode Using System Configuration Tool

The system configuration tool is another way to change or set various OS settings for the device. If you tend to launch windows 10 in safe Mode, then using the system configuration tool can serve the purpose. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Launch the system configuration window from the Windows main menu. Type msconfig in the taskbar’s search box and double-click the option in the list to launch the utility.

search for msconfig

Step 2: In the system configuration window, navigate to the boot tab, and under the section of boot options, check the box for option safe mode. Click ok to apply and save changes.

Step 3: Once you have selected the boot mode, click restart in UAC to complete the action. As your device restarts, it will load in safe Mode.

safe boot and restart

Safe Mode from the Login Screen

If you forgot to load the windows in safe Mode as the device is switched on, you could pursue the action from the login screen. You can use the Shift key to launch the windows recovery environment. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: From the Windows login screen, press and hold the shift key and reach the power icon present in the extreme right corner of the screen. Select the Restart option from the list.

restart

Step 2: As the device restarts, it will launch the windows recovery environment.

Step 3: Select the option of troubleshoot.

advanced options troubleshoot

Step 4: In the troubleshooting window, click the advanced options option followed by the option of startup settings.

Step 5: In startup settings, click restart. As the device restarts, either click the 4 key or 5 key to enter safe mode without the internet or with the internet, respectively.

startup settings restart option

Step 6: In the last step, click the option to enable safe Mode.

startup settings enable safemode

Safe Mode in Windows 10 Using Installation Media and Command Prompt

If you want to enable the safe Mode for safe boot via installation media, startup settings options can be reached from the elevated command prompt. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Connect the installation media with your device and launch the windows setup. Select the language for installation and click next to continue.

language architecture edition selection

Step 2: In the next window, select the link, i.e., repair your computer.

Step 3: From the next menu, select troubleshoot followed by selecting advanced options.

troubleshoot and repair computer

Step 4: In the advanced options menu, select the command prompt.

command prompt in advanced options

Step 5: As the command prompt launches, type the following command in the prompt window and click enter to complete the action.

bcdedit /set {default} safe boot minimal

safeboot minimal

Step 6: Close the prompt window and click continue to exit the windows setup.

choose an option.png continue

Windows 10 in Safe Mode from Shutdown Command in CMD

Not only available with installation media but the command prompt can also be used from power options to launch Windows 10 safely on the device. Here is how you can accomplish the action.

Step 1: Step 1: Launch the command prompt from the Windows main menu. Type cmd in the taskbar’s search box and select the option from the list. Click run as administrator to launch the utility.

run as admin cmd

Step 2: In the command prompt window, type the following command and click enter to continue. It will shut

shutdown.exe /r /o.

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Update Your Windows PC Regularly

Keeping your computer updated is an essential step in staying safe online. By regularly updating the software and operating system, you can ensure that any potential security vulnerabilities on your computer are addressed quickly. This helps to prevent malicious software (including viruses and malware) from infecting your machine.

Regular updates also include bug fixes and performance improvements that enhance the overall functionality of your computer. To stay up-to-date with all available updates, set your computer to install them automatically or check for new updates manually at least once a week. Doing so will help protect your device from malicious software and keep it running smoothly.

Use reliable antivirus programs regularly to scan for threats and remove any unwanted software. Such programs can help identify and block malicious software and alert you to any potential issues with your computer. Taking these simple steps will go a long way toward keeping your computer safe from viruses and malware.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Safe Mode Windows 10 from Boot

Should I Always Use Safe Mode in Windows 10?

In some cases, using Safe Mode could be beneficial. For example, if you’re dealing with a virus or other malicious software that starts when Windows does, booting into Safe Mode can help prevent the malware from running and allow you to remove it.

What is Advanced Startup in Windows 10?

Advanced Startup in Windows 10 allows you to access advanced options such as troubleshooting, reinstalling Windows, changing the OS language, or restoring a system image. To access Advanced Startup in Windows 10, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

Should I Use Safe Mode when I Have a Blank Screen?

Yes, if you have a blank screen on your Windows PC, you should use safe Mode. Safe Mode allows you to start up your computer with minimal drivers and services so that you can try to diagnose what might be causing the issue.

What does a Black or Blank Screen Mean on Windows?

A black or blank screen on Windows usually means that the computer cannot detect a display or the video card is malfunctioning. This can be due to various reasons, such as faulty graphic cards, outdated drivers, incompatible software, or hardware problems.

Is it Secure to Access Safe Mode on Windows 10?

Yes, it is secure to access Safe Mode on Windows 10. Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode in Windows operating systems that troubleshoot problems and diagnose issues with your computer. When you start your PC in Safe Mode, the operating system loads only essential drivers and services so that you can fix any software or hardware-related issue.

Why is Safe Mode Not Activating on My Windows PC?

There are several reasons why Safe Mode might not act on your Windows PC. First, ensure you’re using the correct keyboard shortcut to enter Safe Mode (for example, press F8 or Shift + F8). If that doesn’t work, it could be because your computer is infected with malware or viruses preventing Safe Mode from being activated.

Can Safe Mode Protect My PC from Viruses?

Safe Mode can help protect your PC from viruses, but it is not a comprehensive antivirus solution. When you start your PC in Safe Mode, the operating system loads only essential drivers and services so that you can identify and remove any malicious software on your computer.

Shayne Sherman
Meet the author

Shayne is an expert on all things Microsoft Windows and computer security. As a Windows user of over 30 years, he has been featured on Business Insider, Yahoo, Tech Republic, Hacker Noon, Techopedia, and many other publications. Aside from entertaining at his home theater, he enjoys spending time with his family, including his English bulldog, Fergie.