Restarting your Windows 10 PC in Safe Mode can help solve a variety of problems, from removing stubborn malware to troubleshooting system errors. To restart in Safe Mode, you need to access the advanced startup settings and proceed to boot options. The steps are simple and effective, ensuring you can get your computer back on track with minimal fuss.
How to Restart in Safe Mode Windows 10
The following steps will guide you through the process of restarting your Windows 10 computer in Safe Mode. This special mode only loads the essential drivers and services, making it easier to diagnose and fix issues on your system.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, go to the Start Menu and click on Settings.
You can access the Start Menu by clicking the Windows icon at the bottom left corner of your screen. Once you’re in Settings, you can navigate through various system configurations.
Step 2: Select Update & Security
In the Settings window, click on Update & Security.
Update & Security contains many options related to your system’s updates, security, and recovery settings.
Step 3: Go to Recovery
Next, click on Recovery from the left-hand menu.
The Recovery option provides tools for troubleshooting and recovering your Windows 10 system.
Step 4: Click Restart Now under Advanced startup
Under the Advanced startup section, click the Restart now button.
This will restart your computer and take you to a blue screen with advanced startup options.
Step 5: Choose Troubleshoot
Select Troubleshoot from the options.
Troubleshoot contains several tools that can help you fix various issues, including booting into Safe Mode.
Step 6: Click Advanced options
Under the Troubleshoot menu, click on Advanced options.
The Advanced options menu will give you more detailed settings for system recovery and startup.
Step 7: Select Startup Settings
In the Advanced options menu, click on Startup Settings.
Startup Settings will show you various options for booting, including Safe Mode.
Step 8: Click Restart
Click on the Restart button.
This will restart your computer once more and present you with a list of startup options.
Step 9: Enable Safe Mode
Press the 4 key to enable Safe Mode.
Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode, loading only essential drivers and services.
After completing these steps, your computer will restart and load in Safe Mode. This mode is indicated by the words “Safe Mode” appearing in the corners of your screen. In this state, you can perform various troubleshooting tasks to resolve system issues.
Tips for Restarting in Safe Mode Windows 10
- Backup your data: Before making any changes, always back up important files.
- Use networking if needed: Select Safe Mode with Networking if you need internet access.
- Check drivers: Safe Mode can help identify driver issues. Update or roll back drivers as necessary.
- Run malware scans: Safe Mode makes it easier to remove tough malware.
- Use System Restore: If Safe Mode doesn’t fix the issue, try running a System Restore from within Safe Mode.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Safe Mode?
Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows that starts the computer with only basic drivers and services.
Can I use the internet in Safe Mode?
Yes, you can select Safe Mode with Networking to have internet access.
How do I exit Safe Mode?
Simply restart your computer, and it will boot back into normal mode.
Will Safe Mode fix my problems?
Safe Mode helps diagnose issues but may not fix them. It provides a stable environment for troubleshooting.
Why can’t I access Safe Mode?
If you can’t access Safe Mode, your issue might be related to deeper system problems or hardware failures. Seek professional help if needed.
Summary
- Open Settings: Go to the Start Menu and click on Settings.
- Select Update & Security: Click on Update & Security.
- Go to Recovery: Click Recovery from the left-hand menu.
- Click Restart Now: Click Restart now under Advanced startup.
- Choose Troubleshoot: Select Troubleshoot from the options.
- Click Advanced options: Click on Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings: Click on Startup Settings.
- Click Restart: Click the Restart button.
- Enable Safe Mode: Press the 4 key to enable Safe Mode.
Conclusion
Restarting in Safe Mode on Windows 10 is a straightforward yet powerful way to troubleshoot and resolve system issues. By following the steps outlined, you can easily access this diagnostic environment. From there, you can address problems that may be preventing your computer from functioning properly.
Remember, Safe Mode is a tool, not a solution in itself. Use it to identify and fix issues, whether they be malware, driver problems, or software conflicts. If you’re new to troubleshooting, following these steps can make the process less daunting. For more in-depth guides, consider exploring further resources or contacting support professionals. Ultimately, Safe Mode is an essential part of your Windows troubleshooting toolkit.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.