Introduction
Are you having trouble with your Windows 10 computer? One of the first steps you should take is to boot it into safe mode. Safe mode is a diagnostic tool that helps you identify and fix errors or issues with your operating system. In this article, we will take a look at what safe mode is, explore why you might want to use it, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to start Windows 10 in safe mode.
Definition of Safe Mode
Safe mode is a special boot option available in most versions of Windows. It allows you to start up your computer with minimal drivers and services running. This gives you an opportunity to identify and correct any issues that may be preventing your computer from starting up properly. According to Microsoft, “When you start Windows in safe mode, a limited set of files and drivers are loaded so that you can isolate problems.”
Reasons for Using Safe Mode
There are several reasons why you might want to use safe mode. For example, if you are having difficulty getting your computer to start up, you can use safe mode to identify and fix the problem. Additionally, if you need to uninstall a program or driver that is causing problems, you can do so in safe mode. Finally, if you are experiencing a virus or other malicious software infection, you can use safe mode to isolate the infection and then remove it.
Use the Windows 10 Advanced Boot Options Menu
The Advanced Boot Options menu is a handy feature that allows you to access different startup options, including safe mode. To access this menu, you must first restart your computer and press the F8 key while it is booting up. Depending on your computer’s configuration, you may need to press the F8 key several times before the menu appears.
Using the F8 Key to Enter Safe Mode
Once the Advanced Boot Options menu appears, you can select the “Safe Mode” option. This will start Windows in safe mode. To exit safe mode, simply restart your computer. You can also enter “Safe Mode with Networking” if you need access to the internet.
Use System Configuration Tool
Another way to start Windows 10 in safe mode is through the System Configuration Tool. To access this tool, type “msconfig” into the search box located on the taskbar. Once the System Configuration window opens, click the “Boot” tab and then check the box next to “Safe Boot”. Finally, click “OK” to save your changes and restart your computer.
Create a Recovery Drive
Creating a recovery drive is another way to start Windows 10 in safe mode. To create a recovery drive, open the Settings app and go to “Update & Security”. Then, click “Recovery” and select “Create a recovery drive”. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the process. Once the recovery drive has been created, you can use it to start your computer in safe mode.
Access Safe Mode via Command Prompt
You can also access safe mode by using the command prompt. To do this, open the command prompt as an administrator and type the following command: “bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal”. This will enable safe mode and your computer will restart in safe mode.
Enable Safe Mode Using Windows Settings
If you are using Windows 10 version 1803 or later, you can enable safe mode directly from the Windows Settings app. To do this, open the Settings app and go to “Update & Security”. Then, click “Recovery” and select “Advanced startup”. Finally, click “Restart now” and select “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Startup Settings” > “Restart”. Once your computer has restarted, you can select the “Enable Safe Mode” option.
Use Third-Party Software to Boot into Safe Mode
Finally, you can also use third-party software to boot into safe mode. Popular programs include EasyBCD, Dual-boot Repair, and BootIt Bare Metal. These programs allow you to easily select the safe mode option and then restart your computer.
Conclusion
Safe mode is a useful diagnostic tool that can help you identify and fix errors or issues with your Windows 10 computer. There are several ways to start Windows 10 in safe mode, including using the Advanced Boot Options menu, creating a recovery drive, using the System Configuration Tool, accessing safe mode via the command prompt, enabling safe mode using Windows Settings, and using third-party software. With these steps in mind, you should now have a better understanding of how to start Windows 10 in safe mode.
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