How to Get into Safe Mode Windows 10: Step-by-Step Instructions

By / November 4, 2025

If your Windows 10 PC is acting up — maybe it keeps crashing, won’t start properly, or a stubborn program refuses to uninstall — Safe Mode can be your best troubleshooting friend. But how do you actually get into Safe Mode on Windows 10?

Don’t worry — in this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to get into Safe Mode in Windows 10 using different methods: from startup settings, through the login screen, or even when your system won’t boot normally.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to enter Safe Mode, what the different Safe Mode options mean, and how to use it to fix common PC issues — all without any tech headaches.

🧭 What Is Safe Mode in Windows 10?

Safe Mode is a special troubleshooting environment in Windows that starts your computer with a minimal set of drivers and services. Think of it as Windows in its simplest form — no fancy graphics, startup programs, or unnecessary background processes.

This stripped-down version helps you pinpoint problems because it only runs what’s essential for the system to work.

💡 Why Use Safe Mode?

You should use Safe Mode when:

  • Your PC freezes or restarts unexpectedly.

  • You suspect malware or viruses.

  • Windows doesn’t start normally.

  • A driver or software update causes crashes.

  • You want to uninstall a stubborn app or driver.

⚙️ Types of Safe Mode in Windows 10

Before jumping into the steps, it’s useful to know that Windows 10 offers three types of Safe Mode:

Safe Mode Type Description When to Use
Safe Mode Starts Windows with only basic drivers and services. Basic troubleshooting.
Safe Mode with Networking Includes network drivers and services. When you need internet access to download tools or updates.
Safe Mode with Command Prompt Opens directly into Command Prompt. Advanced troubleshooting or using command-line tools.

🚀 How to Get into Safe Mode in Windows 10 (7 Proven Methods)

Let’s explore all the reliable ways to enter Safe Mode — whether your computer is booting normally or completely stuck.

🖥️ Method 1: Enter Safe Mode from Windows Settings

If your PC is working (you can log in normally), this is the simplest method.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Click the Start menu and select Settings ⚙️.

  2. Go to Update & Security → Recovery.

  3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

  4. Once your PC restarts, choose:

    • Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.

  5. After rebooting, you’ll see a list of options.

  6. Press:

    • 4 or F4 → Safe Mode

    • 5 or F5 → Safe Mode with Networking

    • 6 or F6 → Safe Mode with Command Prompt

✅ Tip: Choose “Safe Mode with Networking” if you need to download drivers, updates, or run online scans.

💻 Method 2: Use the Shift + Restart Shortcut

Perfect when you’re already on the login screen or desktop.

Steps:

  1. Hold down the Shift key.

  2. While holding it, click Restart (from the Start menu or login screen Power icon).

  3. Windows will reboot into the Choose an option screen.

  4. Go to:

    • Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.

  5. Choose your Safe Mode type (4, 5, or 6).

This is one of the fastest ways to launch Safe Mode without digging into settings.

⚡ Method 3: Enter Safe Mode Using System Configuration (msconfig)

Want to set your PC to always boot into Safe Mode until you turn it off? The System Configuration tool makes it easy.

Here’s how:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.

  2. Type msconfig and hit Enter.

  3. In the System Configuration window, select the Boot tab.

  4. Under Boot options, check Safe boot.

  5. Choose your preferred option:

    • Minimal → Safe Mode

    • Network → Safe Mode with Networking

    • Alternate shell → Safe Mode with Command Prompt

  6. Click OK, then Restart your PC.

✅ To exit Safe Mode later, uncheck Safe boot in the same menu and restart.

🧰 Method 4: Get into Safe Mode from a Black or Blank Screen

If Windows 10 won’t load the desktop, you can still access Safe Mode through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

Steps:

  1. Press and hold the power button to turn off your PC.

  2. Turn it on again. As soon as Windows starts loading (you see the spinning dots), press and hold the power button again to force shutdown.

  3. Repeat this three times.

  4. On the fourth startup, Windows will automatically enter Recovery Mode.

  5. Go to:

    • Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.

  6. Select Safe Mode from the list.

💡 This is a lifesaver when your system keeps crashing before booting.

🔄 Method 5: Use a Recovery Drive or Installation Media

If your PC can’t boot at all, use a USB recovery drive or a Windows installation disc.

Here’s what to do:

  1. Insert your Windows 10 USB or DVD.

  2. Restart your PC and boot from the media (you may need to press F12, F2, or ESC to open boot options).

  3. Click Next → Repair your computer.

  4. Choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Command Prompt.

  5. In the Command Prompt, type:

    bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal

  6. Close the window and restart your PC — it’ll boot into Safe Mode.

🧩 To return to normal mode, open Command Prompt again and type:

bcdedit /deletevalue {default} safeboot

🔐 Method 6: Enable Safe Mode from Command Prompt (When Windows Is Running)

If you’re comfortable using commands, this is a powerful and quick method.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + X → select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).

  2. Type one of the following commands:

    • For standard Safe Mode:

      bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal

    • For Safe Mode with Networking:

      bcdedit /set {current} safeboot network

  3. Restart your PC.

  4. To turn off Safe Mode later, open Command Prompt again and type:

    bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

⚙️ Method 7: Interrupt the Normal Boot Sequence

This works if your PC fails to boot properly several times in a row.

Steps:

  1. Turn on your computer.

  2. As soon as Windows begins to load, press and hold the power button to shut it down.

  3. Repeat this process three times.

  4. Windows will enter Automatic Repair mode.

  5. Click Advanced options → Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.

  6. Select Safe Mode from the options.

🧩 What to Do Once You’re in Safe Mode

So, you’ve successfully entered Safe Mode. What’s next?

Here are a few things you can do safely inside this mode:

Task Description
Uninstall problematic drivers or updates Go to Device Manager or Control Panel → Programs.
Run antivirus scans Use Windows Defender or third-party tools to remove malware.
Perform System Restore Restore your PC to a previous working state.
Use SFC or DISM tools Repair corrupt system files using built-in commands.
Check startup programs Disable unnecessary startup items from Task Manager.

✅ Remember: Safe Mode is diagnostic — not a permanent solution. Once your issue is resolved, restart to return to normal mode.

🧠 Understanding the Differences: Safe Mode vs. Normal Mode

Feature Safe Mode Normal Mode
Startup Programs Disabled Enabled
Graphics Drivers Basic (VGA) Full GPU Drivers
Internet Disabled (unless with Networking) Enabled
Purpose Troubleshooting Everyday Use

🩺 Common Problems You Can Fix in Safe Mode

Safe Mode helps solve a wide range of Windows 10 issues, including:

  • Crashing or freezing on startup

  • Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)

  • Virus or malware infections

  • Faulty driver updates

  • Software conflicts

  • Black screen or missing taskbar issues

  • File Explorer not opening

If your computer acts fine in Safe Mode, that’s a big clue that the problem is caused by a third-party program, service, or driver.

🛠️ How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 10

When you’re done troubleshooting, getting back to normal mode is simple.

Option 1: Using System Configuration

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

  2. Under the Boot tab, uncheck Safe boot.

  3. Click OK → Restart.

Option 2: Using Command Prompt

Open Command Prompt (Admin) and type:

bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

Then restart your PC.

✅ That’s it — your PC should now boot normally.

💬 Pro Tips for Using Safe Mode Effectively

  • Backup data first. Always keep a copy of important files before making system changes.

  • Use “Safe Mode with Networking” to download updates or tools.

  • Avoid installing new apps in Safe Mode. It’s for diagnostics, not daily use.

  • Take note of what works or fails. This helps you identify root causes.

  • Run System Restore if you recently installed something that broke your system.

🧭 Troubleshooting Safe Mode Not Working

If you can’t get into Safe Mode, try these:

  • Use installation media to repair Windows.

  • Reset your boot configuration using:

    bcdedit /deletevalue {default} safeboot

  • Run Startup Repair from Advanced options.

  • Make sure your keyboard keys (F4, F8) are working — some laptops need the Fn key pressed together.

📚 Conclusion: Getting into Safe Mode in Windows 10 Made Easy

Now you know exactly how to get into Safe Mode in Windows 10, no matter what condition your PC is in.

Whether you’re fixing crashes, removing malware, or diagnosing driver issues, Safe Mode gives you a clean environment to isolate and solve problems.

👉 Key takeaway:
Use Safe Mode to diagnose — not as a daily driver. Once you’ve fixed the issue, return to normal mode for full functionality.

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • Safe Mode loads only essential system files and drivers.

  • You can enter Safe Mode from Settings, Shift + Restart, msconfig, or Recovery Mode.

  • Safe Mode with Networking is great for online troubleshooting.

  • Always exit Safe Mode after finishing repairs.

  • If your PC won’t start, use a bootable USB or force WinRE to load.

❓FAQs About Getting into Safe Mode in Windows 10

1. How do I start Windows 10 in Safe Mode when F8 doesn’t work?

The F8 key is disabled by default in Windows 10. Instead, use Shift + Restart or go through Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Advanced startup.

2. Can I use the internet in Safe Mode?

Yes, but only if you choose Safe Mode with Networking. It loads network drivers so you can connect online.

3. How do I get out of Safe Mode?

Open System Configuration (msconfig), uncheck Safe boot, and restart your computer.

4. Will entering Safe Mode delete my files?

No. Safe Mode doesn’t delete or modify your personal data — it just loads minimal system services.

5. What if my computer doesn’t enter Safe Mode at all?

Try using a Windows recovery drive or installation media to access troubleshooting options and force Safe Mode via Command Prompt.

✅ Final Tip: Keep this guide bookmarked! Safe Mode might not be something you use every day, but when your PC acts up, knowing these steps can save you hours of frustration.

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