What Is Safe Mode & How to Enter Safe Mode in Windows 10

Updated on July 1, 2025, by Xcitium

Have you ever had your PC freeze or crash unexpectedly? If so, knowing how to enter Safe Mode in Windows 10 can save the day. Safe Mode is a special diagnostic mode that loads only essential files and drivers, helping you troubleshoot and fix issues effectively. Whether you’re an IT manager, a cybersecurity professional, or simply someone managing a networked environment, understanding Safe Mode is essential for system recovery and security checks.

What Is Safe Mode in Windows?

Safe Mode is a stripped-down version of your operating system. It loads only core files and drivers—no third-party software, and limited functionality—making it easier to identify and fix system problems.

Why Use Safe Mode?

Diagnose software conflicts
Remove malware
Uninstall problematic updates or drivers
Perform system restores

Safe Mode exists in both Windows 10 and Windows 11, though the methods to access it vary slightly.

Methods to Enter Safe Mode in Windows 10

There are several ways to enter Safe Mode in Windows 10. Choose the method that suits your situation best.

1. Using the Settings Menu

Best when your system boots normally.

Go to Settings → Update & Security.
Click Recovery.
Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
Select Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.
Press 4 for Safe Mode, 5 for Safe Mode with Networking, or 6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt.

2. From the Sign-In Screen

If you can reach the sign-in screen but not the desktop:

Hold Shift while clicking Power > Restart.
Navigate the same path: Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.
Press the corresponding number key to enter Safe Mode.

3. Windows 10 Safe Mode from BIOS

For PCs that can’t boot into Windows:

Power off the computer.
Turn it back on and repeatedly press F8, F11, or Esc (varies by manufacturer).
Go to Startup Settings or Advanced Boot Options.
Choose Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.

This method also applies to Boot Windows 10 in Safe Mode from power off situations.

4. Using Command Line

Use this when you still have access to the OS or are working with remote tools.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

Type the following:

arduino
CopyEdit
bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal

shutdown /r

Your PC will reboot into Safe Mode.

To exit Safe Mode, run:

bash

CopyEdit

bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

This is especially handy if you need to enter Safe Mode Windows 10 command line style for scripting or remote diagnosis.

5. Boot Windows 11 in Safe Mode (from Power Off or Settings)

Steps are almost identical to Windows 10:

From Settings: Go to System > Recovery > Advanced startup.
From power-off: Press and hold Shift + Power > Restart, then follow the prompts.

Pro Tips: When to Use Safe Mode

After installing a faulty driver
Post-malware infection
System Restore or rollback operations
Verifying system file integrity

Summary Checklist

Method	Use Case
Settings Menu	Normal boot environment
Sign-in Screen	OS boots, but desktop won’t load
BIOS Boot	Black screen or crash loop
Command Line	Remote access or scripting
Windows 11	Same as Windows 10 methods

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not exiting Safe Mode correctly after use
Confusing Safe Mode with System Restore
Not backing up before performing changes

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to enter Safe Mode in Windows 10 isn’t just for tech pros. It’s an essential skill that can help you fix problems quickly and efficiently. With multiple access methods—via BIOS, command line, or system settings—you can troubleshoot nearly any Windows issue.

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