How To Start In Safe Mode Windows 10

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by

Vector Linux
in

Starting your computer in Safe Mode can be a useful troubleshooting step when you encounter issues with your Windows 10 operating system. Whether you’re experiencing blue screen errors, software conflicts, or malware infections, booting into Safe Mode can help you isolate and fix the problem. In this article, I will guide you through the process of starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode and provide some tips along the way.

Why Use Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is a bare-bones version of Windows that loads only necessary drivers and services. By starting your computer in Safe Mode, you can eliminate many potential causes of system errors. This allows you to focus on troubleshooting specific issues without interference from unnecessary software or drivers.

One of the common reasons for booting into Safe Mode is to remove malware. Safe Mode prevents most malware from loading, making it easier to detect and remove malicious software.

Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode

There are several ways to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode. I will walk you through two of the most common methods.

Method 1: Using the Shift + Restart Method

  1. Click on the Start menu and then select the Power button.
  2. Press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard.
  3. While holding the Shift key, click on Restart.
  4. Your computer will now restart and present you with the Advanced Startup Options.
  5. From the options menu, select Troubleshoot.
  6. In the Troubleshoot menu, select Advanced options.
  7. Next, click on Startup Settings.
  8. Finally, click on Restart.
  9. After your computer restarts, you will see a list of startup settings.
  10. Press the number key corresponding to the Safe Mode option you want (usually 4 or F4).

Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode, and you can start troubleshooting the issue you are experiencing.

Method 2: Using System Configuration

  1. Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type msconfig into the Run box and click OK.
  3. The System Configuration window will appear.
  4. In the System Configuration window, navigate to the Boot tab.
  5. Under the Boot options section, check the box next to Safe boot.
  6. Select the Minimal option for a basic Safe Mode or the Network option if you need internet access in Safe Mode.
  7. Click Apply and then OK.
  8. A pop-up window will appear, asking if you want to restart your computer now or later. Choose Restart.

After your computer restarts, it will boot into Safe Mode.

Troubleshooting in Safe Mode

Once you have successfully booted into Safe Mode, you can begin troubleshooting the issue you are experiencing. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Scan your computer for malware using a reliable antivirus program.
  • Uninstall recently installed software or drivers that may be causing conflicts.
  • Update your drivers to ensure they are compatible with your version of Windows.
  • Check for Windows updates and install them if available.
  • Test your computer’s hardware components, such as memory and hard drive, for errors.

Remember, Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode, so some features and functionality may be limited or disabled. If you are unable to resolve the issue in Safe Mode, you may need to seek further assistance from a professional or contact the software or hardware manufacturer for support.

Conclusion

Starting Windows 10 in Safe Mode can be a helpful troubleshooting step when you encounter issues with your computer. Whether you’re dealing with software conflicts, malware infections, or other problems, Safe Mode provides a clean and minimal environment to diagnose and fix the issue. By following the methods I outlined in this article, you should be able to easily boot into Safe Mode and begin the troubleshooting process.