Practical guide

How to Start Windows in Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with a limited set of drivers and services. It can help isolate software issues but is not a general performance mode.

What to do

  1. If Windows starts, open Settings > System > Recovery and select Restart now under Advanced startup.
  2. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. After restart, select the Safe Mode option shown on screen.
  3. Sign in and perform only the diagnostic task you intended. Some network, display, and security features may be unavailable.
  4. Restart normally when finished. If Windows keeps entering Safe Mode, inspect Startup Settings or System Configuration changes made during troubleshooting.

Checks and limitations

  • You may need your account password; a PIN may not work in every recovery scenario.
  • Do not disable encryption or security features without following the device owner's recovery procedure.