When your computer suddenly runs into problems, it can be frustrating and overwhelming. Fortunately, Windows provides a powerful tool called Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts your computer with minimal drivers and services, helping you diagnose and fix system issues. This article will guide you through three different methods to enter Safe Mode in Windows 11, enabling you to troubleshoot and resolve computer problems with ease.
1. What is Safe Mode?
Safe Mode is a special boot option in Windows that loads only the most basic drivers and services, eliminating interference from third-party software or drivers. If the issue disappears in Safe Mode, it indicates that the problem may lie outside the default settings or basic drivers. Safe Mode comes in three types:
- Minimal Safe Mode: Loads only the essential drivers and services, ideal for diagnosing core system issues.
- Safe Mode with Networking: Allows internet access in Safe Mode, useful for downloading repair tools or searching for solutions.
- Safe Mode with Command Prompt: Designed for advanced users who prefer using command-line tools.
2. Method 1: Entering Safe Mode via System Settings.
- Click the “Start Menu” and select “Settings.”
- In the Settings window, click “System,” then choose “Recovery.”
- Under “Advanced startup,” click “Restart now.”
- After restarting, select “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Startup Settings.”
- Click “Restart,” then press the corresponding number key to select your desired Safe Mode option (4 for Minimal Safe Mode, 5 for Safe Mode with Networking, and 6 for Safe Mode with Command Prompt).
Summary: This method is user-friendly and suitable for most users.
3. Method 2: Entering Safe Mode via System Configuration Tool.
- Press “Win + R” to open the Run dialog, type “msconfig,” and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, switch to the “Boot” tab.
- Check the “Safe boot” option and select your preferred Safe Mode type (Minimal, Alternate shell, or Network).
- Click “Apply” and confirm to restart your computer.
Summary: This method is ideal for users who need to quickly switch boot modes.
4. Method 3: Entering Safe Mode via Command Line.
- Run Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Enter one of the following commands:
– Minimal Safe Mode: `bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal`
– Safe Mode with Networking: `bcdedit /set {current} safeboot network`
– Safe Mode with Command Prompt: `bcdedit /set {current} safebootalternateshell yes` - Type `shutdown /r /t 00` to restart your computer.
Summary: This method offers the most flexibility and is best suited for advanced users.
5. Important Notes About Safe Mode.
- In Safe Mode, you can only log in using a PIN or password; fingerprint and facial recognition are temporarily unavailable.
- Starting from Windows 10 build 8995, Safe Mode supports Windows Hello PIN login, enhancing convenience.
- After troubleshooting in Safe Mode, remember to revert to normal startup mode using the System Configuration tool or command line.
6. Conclusion.
Safe Mode is an invaluable tool for resolving Windows system issues. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech-savvy professional, mastering the methods to enter Safe Mode will empower you to tackle computer problems confidently. Follow the detailed steps in this guide to make the most of Safe Mode in Windows 11!
7. Demo Video.
You can watch the following demo video by select the subtitle to your preferred subtitle language.