How to Boot in Safe Mode on Windows 10

Hey there! If you're facing issues with your Windows 10 PC, whether it's troubleshooting a pesky problem or conducting maintenance tasks, entering Safe Mode can be an invaluable tool. In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through various methods to boot into Safe Mode with detailed steps and tips. By the end of this journey, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to navigate Safe Mode effortlessly. Let's dive in and unravel the secrets of Safe Mode on Windows 10.

Open the System Configuration Screen

To embark on the journey to Safe Mode, begin by opening the System Configuration screen. This can be accomplished by typing "System Configuration" in the Windows search bar and selecting the Best Match from the results.

Once the System Configuration window opens, navigate to the "Boot" tab. Here, you'll find the "Boot options" section, where you'll need to check the box next to "Safe boot." Based on your requirements, choose either the "Minimal" or "Network" option. Selecting "Minimal" will start your computer in Safe Mode with minimal drivers and services, while "Network" will allow network connectivity in addition to the minimal configuration.

Windows 10 Advanced Startup Option

Another avenue to access Safe Mode is through the Advanced Startup option in Windows 10. Begin by heading to Settings, followed by Update & Security, and then select Recovery. Under the "Advanced startup" section, click on "Restart now." As your PC restarts, you'll be presented with a series of options. Choose "Troubleshoot," then "Advanced options," and finally "Startup Settings." From here, you can opt to restart your PC in Safe Mode.

Utilize Command Prompt to Enable F8 Menu During Startup

If you are more inclined to use Command Prompt, you can enable the F8 menu during startup, simplifying access to Safe Mode. To do this, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type the following command: bcdedit /set {default} bootmenupolicy legacy. This command will enable the F8 menu during startup, providing a convenient pathway to Safe Mode.

Revert to Default Behavior

After enabling the F8 menu using the legacy command, you may decide to revert back to its default behavior. To accomplish this, reopen Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the following command: bcdedit /set {default} bootmenupolicy standard. This will restore the F8 menu to its standard functionality during startup.

Alternate Options

In addition to the aforementioned methods, there are alternative options to access Safe Mode on Windows 10. These include using system recovery media or accessing Safe Mode from within a running version of Windows. Each method offers its own set of advantages and can be employed based on individual preferences and specific scenarios.

Wrapping Up

Congratulations! You've now mastered the art of entering Safe Mode on your Windows 10 PC using various friendly methods. Whether you're troubleshooting issues or performing maintenance tasks, the ability to seamlessly access Safe Mode is a valuable skill in your repertoire. I encourage you to explore these methods and familiarize yourself with the process, empowering you to tackle any challenges that come your way. So go ahead, give these methods a try, and step confidently into the realm of Safe Mode on Windows 10.