How to start windows 11 in safe mode while booting

If you’re experiencing issues with your Windows 11 operating system, starting it in safe mode can help you troubleshoot and fix the problem. Safe mode is a diagnostic mode that allows you to start your computer with only the essential drivers and services, making it easier to identify and resolve any issues.

In this article, we’ll explain how to start Windows 11 in safe mode while booting, using the F8 key and other methods.

Why Start Windows 11 in Safe Mode?

Safe mode is a useful tool for troubleshooting and fixing issues with your Windows 11 operating system. It allows you to start your computer with only the essential drivers and services, making it easier to identify and resolve any problems.

Some common reasons for starting Windows 11 in safe mode include:

• Your computer is experiencing frequent crashes or freezes
• You’re unable to boot into Windows normally
• You suspect a recently installed driver or software is causing issues
• You want to run a virus scan without interference from other programs

Using the F8 Key to Start Windows 11 in Safe Mode

In previous versions of Windows, you could easily start your computer in safe mode by pressing the F8 key during boot. However, with Windows 11, this method no longer works. Instead, you’ll need to use other methods to access safe mode.

How to Start Windows 11 in Safe Mode

There are a few different methods you can use to start Windows 11 in safe mode. We’ll go through each one in detail below.

Method 1: Use the Shift + Restart Method

1. Click on the Start button and then click on the Power icon.
2. Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard and click on Restart.
3. Your computer will restart and take you to the Choose an option screen.
4. Click on Troubleshoot.
5. On the next screen, click on Advanced options.
6. Click on Startup Settings.
7. Click on Restart.
8. Your computer will restart again and take you to the Startup Settings screen.
9. Press the F4 key on your keyboard to start Windows 11 in safe mode.

Method 2: Use the Settings App

1. Click on the Start button and then click on the Settings icon.
2. In the Settings app, click on Update & Security.
3. Click on Recovery in the left-hand menu.
4. Under Advanced startup, click on Restart now.
5. Your computer will restart and take you to the Choose an option screen.
6. Follow steps 4-9 from Method 1 to start Windows 11 in safe mode.

Method 3: Use the Command Prompt

1. Click on the Start button and type “cmd”.
2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type “bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal” and press Enter.
4. Type “exit” and press Enter.
5. Restart your computer.
6. Your computer will start in safe mode.

Method 4: Use the System Configuration Tool

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter.
3. In the System Configuration window, click on the Boot tab.
4. Under Boot options, check the box next to Safe boot and select Minimal.
5. Click on Apply and then OK.
6. Restart your computer.
7. Your computer will start in safe mode.

How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 11

Once you’ve finished troubleshooting and fixing the issue, you’ll need to exit safe mode and start Windows 11 normally. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter.
3. In the System Configuration window, click on the Boot tab.
4. Under Boot options, uncheck the box next to Safe boot.
5. Click on Apply and then OK.
6. Restart your computer.
7. Your computer will start normally.

Tips for Using Safe Mode in Windows 11

• If you’re unable to access safe mode using any of the methods above, you can try using a Windows 11 installation media to access the Advanced options screen and start in safe mode from there.
• If you’re using a laptop, you may need to press and hold the Shift key while clicking on Restart to access the Advanced options screen.
• If you’re unable to boot into Windows 11 at all, you can try using the Command Prompt method to start in safe mode.
• Safe mode is not a permanent solution to fix issues with your computer. Once you’ve identified and resolved the problem, make sure to exit safe mode and start Windows 11 normally.
• If you’re unable to fix the issue in safe mode, you may need to seek professional help or contact Microsoft support for further assistance.

Conclusion

Starting Windows 11 in safe mode can help you troubleshoot and fix issues with your operating system. While the traditional F8 key method no longer works, there are other methods you can use to access safe mode. We hope this article has helped you understand how to start Windows 11 in safe mode while booting.