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Easy•10 min

How to enter Safe Mode in Windows 11

Safe Mode starts Windows 11 with only the essential files and drivers, which can help you troubleshoot startup issues, app problems, or driver conflicts. This guide shows the most reliable ways to enter Safe Mode on a Windows 11 PC, including if your computer still boots normally or if it is having trouble starting.

Step-by-step fix

  1. 1

    Open startup settings from Settings

    If Windows 11 is working well enough to sign in, this is the easiest method. Press Windows + I to open Settings, then select System > Recovery.

    Under Advanced startup, select Restart now. Your PC will restart and open a recovery menu instead of Windows.

  2. 2

    Choose troubleshoot and advanced options

    When the blue recovery screen appears, select Troubleshoot, then choose Advanced options. This menu contains the startup tools you need to reach Safe Mode.

  3. 3

    Open startup settings

    Select Startup Settings, then choose Restart. Windows will restart again and show a numbered list of startup choices.

  4. 4

    Select the Safe Mode option

    After the restart, press the number key that matches the Safe Mode you want:

    • 4 or F4 for Safe Mode
    • 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking
    • 6 or F6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt

    Most people should start with 4 or F4.

  5. 5

    Use the sign-in screen if you cannot open Settings

    If you cannot get to the desktop, go to the Windows sign-in screen and select the Power button. Hold down Shift, then select Restart while keeping Shift pressed.

    This opens the same recovery menu, where you can continue with Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.

  6. 6

    Force the recovery screen if Windows will not boot

    If Windows 11 keeps restarting or will not load, turn the PC on and off during startup three times in a row. When you see Preparing Automatic Repair, let it continue.

    From the recovery screen, select Advanced options, then follow the same path to Startup Settings and restart into Safe Mode.

  7. 7

    Leave Safe Mode when you are done

    To return to normal startup, simply restart your PC. If your computer keeps booting into Safe Mode, open System Configuration by pressing Windows + R, typing msconfig, and pressing Enter. On the Boot tab, clear Safe boot, select OK, and restart.

Frequently asked questions

What is Safe Mode in Windows 11?

Safe Mode is a limited startup mode that loads only the basic Windows files and drivers. It is useful for troubleshooting problems caused by apps, drivers, or settings.

Which Safe Mode option should I choose?

Choose Safe Mode for general troubleshooting, Safe Mode with Networking if you need internet access, and Safe Mode with Command Prompt if you need to run command-based repair steps.

Can I enter Safe Mode without signing in?

Yes. From the sign-in screen, hold Shift and select Restart. You can then reach the recovery menu without logging in first.

How do I know I am in Safe Mode?

Windows usually shows Safe Mode in the corners of the screen, and the desktop may look larger or simpler than usual because only essential drivers are loaded.

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