Boot Into Safe Mode in Windows 10/11

This guide explains several ways to start Windows 10 or Windows 11 in Safe Mode so you can troubleshoot problems such as crashes, black screens, or malware.

Method 1: Use Shift + Restart from the Sign-in or Start Menu

1. Save your work and close any open programs.
2. Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
3. While holding Shift, click the Power icon and then click Restart.
4. Keep holding Shift until you see the Choose an option screen.
5. Click Troubleshoot.
6. Click Advanced options.
7. Click Startup Settings, then click Restart.
8. When the list of options appears, press:
   • 4 or F4 for Safe Mode
   • 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking
   • 6 or F6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Method 2: Use Settings in Windows 10/11

1. Click Start and open Settings.
2. Click Update & Security (Windows 10) or System > Recovery (Windows 11).
3. Under Recovery, find Advanced startup and click Restart now.
4. When the Choose an option screen appears, click Troubleshoot.
5. Click Advanced options.
6. Click Startup Settings, then click Restart.
7. When the list of options appears, press:
   • 4 or F4 for Safe Mode
   • 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking
   • 6 or F6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Method 3: Interrupt Normal Boot (If Windows Will Not Load)

If Windows will not start normally, you can sometimes trigger Automatic Repair and reach Safe Mode.

1. Turn on your PC.
2. As soon as Windows begins to load, hold the power button to turn the PC off.
3. Repeat this process 2–3 times. Windows should enter Automatic Repair.
4. On the Automatic Repair screen, click Advanced options.
5. Click Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
6. Click Restart, then choose the Safe Mode option you need.

Exiting Safe Mode

1. Restart your computer normally from the Start menu.
2. Windows will boot back into normal mode unless you have special startup settings configured.