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

Windows 11 is sleek, fast, and modern, but sometimes things can go wrong—your PC may crash, freeze, or just act strangely. That’s where Safe Mode comes in. Think of Safe Mode as a “minimal boot” option—it loads only the essential files and drivers needed to run Windows. This makes it perfect for troubleshooting problems.

If you’re scratching your head and wondering how to get into Safe Mode in Windows 11, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll go step by step through different methods so you can easily access Safe Mode whenever your PC needs a quick rescue.

Table of Contents

What Is Safe Mode in Windows 11?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode that lets your computer run with only the essential files. By stripping away unnecessary drivers and programs, it helps you identify and fix issues.

There are actually three types of Safe Mode in Windows 11:

Safe Mode – Runs basic Windows with essential drivers.
Safe Mode with Networking – Adds network drivers so you can access the internet.
Safe Mode with Command Prompt – Advanced option for tech-savvy users to troubleshoot with commands.

Why Use Safe Mode in Windows 11?

Safe Mode isn’t something you’ll use every day, but when problems strike, it’s a lifesaver. You may need it if:

Your PC keeps crashing or freezing.
Malware is blocking antivirus software.
You need to uninstall a stubborn program.
Drivers are misbehaving.

Think of Safe Mode like a doctor’s examination room—it strips away distractions so you can focus on the root cause of the issue.

How to Access Safe Mode in Windows 11

There are several ways to boot into Safe Mode. Some methods are easy when your PC is working, while others help when Windows won’t even load. Let’s break them down.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

This is the simplest method if you can log into Windows normally.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Recovery.
Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
Your PC will reboot to the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
Navigate to: Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
After the restart, you’ll see options. Press:
- 4 for Safe Mode.
- 5 for Safe Mode with Networking.
- 6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

Method 2: Using Shift + Restart

If you want a quick shortcut:

Hold Shift and click Restart from the Start Menu or Login screen.
Your PC will reboot into WinRE.
Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
Select your Safe Mode option.

This trick is perfect if you can’t open Settings but can still reach the login screen.

Method 3: From the Sign-in Screen

If your PC won’t log in but still shows the sign-in screen:

On the sign-in screen, hold Shift and click Restart at the bottom-right.
Follow the same steps through Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.

Method 4: Using System Configuration (msconfig)

This is handy if you want your PC to always boot into Safe Mode until you turn it off.

Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
In the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.
Check Safe boot and choose your option:
- Minimal = Safe Mode.
- Alternate shell = Command Prompt.
- Network = Safe Mode with Networking.
Click OK, then Restart.

⚠️ Don’t forget to uncheck “Safe boot” later, or your PC will always start in Safe Mode!

Method 5: Force Restart (For PCs That Won’t Boot)

What if Windows won’t load at all? You can still get into Safe Mode.

Turn on your PC, then forcefully shut it down (hold the power button) as soon as Windows starts loading.
Do this 3 times.
On the fourth start, Windows will automatically boot into WinRE.
Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.

Method 6: Using Command Prompt

For advanced users:

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type: bcdedit /set {default} safeboot minimal
- For Safe Mode with Networking:
bcdedit /set {default} safeboot network
Restart your PC.

To exit Safe Mode later, run:

bcdedit /deletevalue {default} safeboot

Different Safe Mode Options Explained

When you reach Startup Settings, you’ll see several Safe Mode choices. Here’s what they mean:

4 – Enable Safe Mode → Basic mode without internet.
5 – Enable Safe Mode with Networking → Adds network access.
6 – Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt → For advanced troubleshooting.

Choose based on what you’re trying to fix.

Tips for Troubleshooting in Safe Mode

Now that you’re in Safe Mode, what can you do? Here are some common fixes:

Uninstall problematic apps – Go to Control Panel and remove them.
Update or roll back drivers – Check Device Manager.
Run antivirus scans – Malware is easier to remove here.
System Restore – Roll your PC back to a working state.

How to Exit Safe Mode

Getting into Safe Mode is half the battle—don’t forget to exit properly.

Restart your PC – In most cases, simply restarting will bring Windows back to normal.
Disable Safe Boot in msconfig – If you enabled it there, uncheck the box.
Use Command Prompt – Run the bcdedit /deletevalue {default} safeboot command.

Common Issues When Entering Safe Mode

Sometimes Safe Mode itself can be tricky. A few things to keep in mind:

If your keyboard doesn’t respond, check if you’re using a wireless keyboard (try a wired one).
If you can’t get past WinRE, your system files may be corrupted—try running Startup Repair.
If your PC keeps looping back into Safe Mode, make sure Safe Boot is unchecked in msconfig.

Pro Tips for Using Safe Mode in Windows 11

Always back up your files before troubleshooting.
Use Safe Mode with Networking only if you really need internet access—otherwise, malware might sneak in.
If your PC keeps crashing even in Safe Mode, it could be a hardware issue.

Conclusion

Safe Mode is one of the most powerful troubleshooting tools built into Windows 11. Whether your computer is crashing, lagging, or refusing to boot, Safe Mode helps you strip things down to the basics so you can fix what’s broken.

Now that you know multiple ways to enter Safe Mode—from Settings, the sign-in screen, msconfig, or even when your PC won’t boot—you’re ready to handle just about any Windows 11 problem like a pro.

FAQs

1. Can I use Safe Mode to remove viruses from Windows 11?
Yes! Safe Mode prevents many viruses from running, making it easier for antivirus software to remove them.

2. Does Safe Mode delete my files?
No. Safe Mode only changes how Windows starts—it doesn’t delete personal files.

3. Why does my PC keep booting into Safe Mode?
You might have enabled “Safe boot” in msconfig. Just uncheck it to return to normal startup.

4. What’s the difference between Safe Mode and Clean Boot?
Safe Mode loads only essential Windows services, while Clean Boot disables third-party apps but still loads drivers and services.

5. Can I access the internet in Safe Mode?
Yes, but only if you choose Safe Mode with Networking.