How to Get Into Safe Mode Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 7, 2025

Safe Mode is like a secret backdoor into Windows. It loads only the essential drivers and files needed to start your PC, which makes it the go-to troubleshooting tool when something goes wrong. Whether your system keeps crashing, a stubborn app won’t uninstall, or you’re fighting off malware, booting into Safe Mode in Windows 11 can help.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to enter Safe Mode in Windows 11 step by step—using different methods.

What Is Safe Mode in Windows 11?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup environment where Windows runs with minimal drivers and services. It helps you:

  • Fix startup problems.

  • Uninstall problematic software or drivers.

  • Scan and remove malware.

  • Troubleshoot crashes and performance issues.

Types of Safe Mode in Windows 11

Windows 11 offers three main Safe Mode options:

  1. Safe Mode – Loads only basic files and drivers.

  2. Safe Mode with Networking – Same as Safe Mode but includes internet/network access.

  3. Safe Mode with Command Prompt – Advanced option for techies, launches directly into Command Prompt.

Method 1: Enter Safe Mode from Settings

This method works best if your PC can still boot normally.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to System > Recovery.

  3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

  4. Your PC will restart and show advanced boot options.

  5. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.

  6. When the list appears, press:

    • 4 for Safe Mode.

    • 5 for Safe Mode with Networking.

    • 6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

Method 2: Using the Shift + Restart Shortcut

If you’re stuck on the login screen, this is your best option.

Step-by-Step:

  1. On the login screen, hold down Shift.

  2. While holding Shift, click the Power icon > Restart.

  3. After reboot, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.

  4. Choose your preferred Safe Mode option.

Method 3: Enter Safe Mode via System Configuration (msconfig)

This is a quick way if you want Windows to always boot in Safe Mode until you change it back.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.

  3. Under Boot options, check Safe boot.

  4. Select Minimal (basic Safe Mode) or Network.

  5. Click Apply > OK, then restart your PC.

💡 Remember to uncheck “Safe boot” later, or Windows will always boot in Safe Mode.

Method 4: Using Command Prompt

For advanced users, Command Prompt can quickly boot into Safe Mode.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Search for Command Prompt and run as Administrator.

  2. Type the following command and press Enter:

    bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal

  3. Restart your PC, and it will boot into Safe Mode.

👉 To go back to normal mode, type:

bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

Method 5: Interrupting Startup (If PC Won’t Boot Normally)

If Windows keeps crashing and won’t load, you can force Safe Mode.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Start your PC.

  2. As soon as Windows begins loading, hold down the power button to force shutdown.

  3. Repeat this process 2–3 times until Automatic Repair screen appears.

  4. Select Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Startup Settings > Restart.

  5. Choose your Safe Mode option.

Which Safe Mode Option Should You Choose?

  • Safe Mode → Best for basic troubleshooting.

  • Safe Mode with Networking → Needed if you must download drivers, updates, or antivirus tools.

  • Safe Mode with Command Prompt → Great for advanced fixes using text commands.

When Should You Use Safe Mode?

  • Your PC won’t boot normally.

  • Apps or drivers cause crashes.

  • Malware blocks you from removing it.

  • You need to uninstall software that won’t run in normal mode.

How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 11

  1. Restart your PC normally.

  2. If you used msconfig or Command Prompt, undo the Safe Boot setting:

    • In msconfig, uncheck Safe boot.

    • In Command Prompt, run:

      bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

Troubleshooting Safe Mode Issues

  • Stuck in Safe Mode? → Disable “Safe boot” in msconfig.

  • Keyboard shortcuts not working? → Try using the on-screen keyboard in the login screen.

  • Can’t access Startup Settings? → Boot from a Windows 11 installation USB and select Repair your computer.

Conclusion

Safe Mode in Windows 11 is like a safety net—it lets you diagnose and fix problems without interference from extra apps, drivers, or malware. Whether you use Settings, Shift + Restart, msconfig, or even Command Prompt, there’s always a way to get into Safe Mode.

If your PC is acting up, don’t panic. Just step into Safe Mode, troubleshoot the issue, and you’ll be back to normal in no time.

FAQs

1. How do I quickly get into Safe Mode in Windows 11?

The fastest way is pressing Shift + Restart from the login screen and choosing Safe Mode.

2. Can I use the internet in Safe Mode?

Yes, but only if you select Safe Mode with Networking.

3. Is Safe Mode the same as normal Windows?

Not quite—it runs with minimal drivers and no extra apps, making troubleshooting easier.

4. Why won’t my PC exit Safe Mode?

You may have enabled Safe boot in msconfig. Uncheck it to return to normal.

5. Does Safe Mode delete my files?

No, it doesn’t delete your files. It only changes how Windows starts.

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