Frequently Asked Questions

Safe mode starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers. It can help you troubleshoot problems on your PC. For example, if the problem doesn't happen in safe mode, you'll know default settings and basic device drivers aren't causing the issue.

There are two versions of safe mode: Safe Mode and Safe Mode with Networking. They're quite similar, but Safe Mode with Networking includes the network drivers and services you'll need to access the Internet and other computers on your network.

The following sections describe how to start your PC in safe mode.


From Settings

1. Press Windows logo key Windows logo key + I on your keyboard to open Settings. If that doesn't work, select the Start button in the lower-left corner of your screen, then select Settings .
2. Select Update & security > Recovery .
3. Under Advanced startup, select Restart now.
4. After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options> Startup Settings > Restart.
5. After your PC restarts, you'll see a list of options. Select 4 or F4 to start your PC in Safe Mode. Or if you'll need to use the Internet, select 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.

From the sign-in screen

1. Restart your PC. When you get to the sign-in screen, hold the Shift key down while you select Power
   
   > Restart.
2. After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options> Startup Settings > Restart.
3. After your PC restarts, you'll see a list of options. Select 4 or F4 to start your PC in Safe Mode. Or if you'll need to use the Internet, select 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.