How To Open Safe Mode

Devilwatt

2 min read

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03-02-2025

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Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode for your computer that loads only essential drivers and services. It's incredibly useful for troubleshooting problems, especially when your system is acting up and preventing you from accessing your usual applications or settings. This guide will walk you through how to access Safe Mode on both Windows and macOS operating systems.

Accessing Safe Mode in Windows

There are several ways to boot into Safe Mode on Windows, depending on your version and whether you can access the normal boot process.

Method 1: Accessing Safe Mode Through the Startup Settings

This is the most common method and works for most Windows versions (10, 11, etc.).

1. Restart your computer.
2. Repeatedly press the F8 key during the startup process. You may need to press it several times and quickly, as the timing can vary depending on your computer's hardware. If F8 doesn't work, try Shift + F8. If neither works, proceed to Method 2.
3. Select "Safe Mode" from the Advanced Boot Options menu.

Method 2: Accessing Safe Mode Through the Settings Menu (Windows 10 and 11)

If you can't access the F8 menu, this method uses the built-in Windows settings.

1. Open the Settings app (the gear icon in the Start Menu).
2. Go to "Update & Security," then "Recovery."
3. Under "Advanced startup," click "Restart now."
4. After your computer restarts, you'll see the "Choose an option" screen.
5. Select "Troubleshoot," then "Advanced options," and finally "Startup Settings."
6. Click "Restart."
7. When your computer restarts again, you'll see a list of startup options. Press the number key corresponding to "Safe Mode." You can also choose Safe Mode with Networking if you need internet access.

Method 3: Using the Command Prompt (Advanced Users)

This method requires some technical knowledge and is best suited for advanced users.

1. Restart your computer.
2. Repeatedly press the F8 key (or Shift + F8) to access the Advanced Boot Options menu.
3. Select "Command Prompt."
4. Type bcdedit /set {default} bootmenupolicy legacy and press Enter. This will enable the legacy boot menu.
5. Type exit and press Enter to close the Command Prompt.
6. Restart your computer again. This time, you should be able to access the Advanced Boot Options menu using F8 and select Safe Mode.

Troubleshooting: If you still can't access Safe Mode, try updating your BIOS or checking for hardware issues.

Accessing Safe Mode in macOS

macOS utilizes a slightly different approach to Safe Mode. It's less about specific key combinations and more about holding down a key during startup.

1. Turn off your Mac.
2. Turn it on again, and immediately hold down the Shift key.
3. Keep holding the Shift key until you see the login window. This may take a few minutes.
4. Log in as usual. You'll see "Safe Boot" in the upper-right corner of your screen if you've successfully entered Safe Mode.

Exiting Safe Mode: To exit Safe Mode on macOS, simply restart your computer normally (without holding down any keys).

Remember to restart your computer normally after you’ve completed your troubleshooting in Safe Mode. This ensures your system operates as intended. If you are still having issues after trying these methods, consider seeking further professional assistance.