How to Start Windows 10 and 11 in Safe Mode: A Step-by-Step Guide
Start Windows 10 and 11 in Safe Mode

Safe Mode is a troubleshooting tool in Windows that allows users to start their computers with only essential system programs and drivers, making it easier to diagnose and fix various issues. Whether you're experiencing software conflicts, driver problems, or malware infections, booting into Safe Mode can help isolate and resolve these issues. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to start Windows 10 and Windows 11 in Safe Mode.
Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode:
Access Advanced Startup Options:
Click on the Windows Start menu and select the "Power" icon.
While holding down the "Shift" key, click "Restart." Alternatively, you can press and hold the "Shift" key while clicking "Restart" in the Windows sign-in screen.
Choose Troubleshoot Options:
After your computer restarts, you'll be presented with the Advanced Startup Options menu.
Select "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Settings" > "Restart."
Select Safe Mode Option:
After your computer restarts again, you'll see a list of startup settings.
Press the "4" or "F4" key to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode. If you need networking capabilities in Safe Mode, press "5" or "F5" instead.
Log In to Safe Mode:
Once Windows 10 starts in Safe Mode, log in with your user account.
Exit Safe Mode:
To exit Safe Mode, simply restart your computer normally.
Starting Windows 11 in Safe Mode:
Access Advanced Startup Options:
Click on the Windows Start menu, then click the "Settings" gear icon.
In the Settings window, select "System" > "Recovery" from the sidebar.
Under "Advanced startup," click "Restart now."
Choose Troubleshoot Options:
After your computer restarts, you'll be taken to the Choose an option screen.
Select "Troubleshoot" > "Advanced options" > "Startup Settings" > "Restart."
Select Safe Mode Option:
Once your computer restarts again, you'll see a list of startup settings.
Press the "4" or "F4" key to start Windows 11 in Safe Mode. Press "5" or "F5" for Safe Mode with Networking, if needed.
Log In to Safe Mode:
Log in with your user account when prompted after Windows 11 starts in Safe Mode.
Exit Safe Mode:
To exit Safe Mode, restart your computer normally.
Conclusion:
Starting Windows 10 and Windows 11 in Safe Mode can be invaluable for troubleshooting and resolving various system issues. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily boot into Safe Mode to diagnose software conflicts, driver problems, or malware infections, allowing you to restore your computer's functionality and stability. Safe Mode provides a secure environment to troubleshoot and fix issues without risking further damage to your system.
Did this answer your question?