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Start Windows 10 in Safe Mode

Safe Mode starts Windows with only the basic drivers and services. Use it to fix problems with drivers, software or malware.

Windows Hosting2 min read8 steps7 screenshots

Method 1: System Configuration (msconfig)

Use this if Windows starts normally.

  1. Press the Windows key, type System Configuration (or msconfig) and open it.
    Searching for System Configuration
  2. Open the Boot tab. Under Boot options, tick Safe boot and choose Minimal. Click OK and then Restart.
    Safe boot in System Configuration
  3. Windows restarts in Safe Mode.
Important: Windows will start in Safe Mode every time until you undo this. When you are done, open msconfig again, untick Safe boot and restart.

Method 2: Shift + Restart

Use this at the sign-in screen, or when Windows does not start well.

  1. On the sign-in screen, click the Power button at the bottom right. Hold Shift and click Restart.
    Shift and Restart on the sign-in screen
  2. In the blue screen, click Troubleshoot.
    Troubleshoot
  3. Click Advanced options.
    Advanced options
  4. Click Startup Settings, then Restart.
    Startup Settings
  5. After the restart, press 4 or F4 for Safe Mode. Press 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.
    The Startup Settings menu

Which Safe Mode to choose

  • Safe Mode (4): the minimum drivers and services.
  • Safe Mode with Networking (5): also loads network drivers, so you can use the internet.
  • Safe Mode with Command Prompt (6): opens a command window and not the desktop.

What to do in Safe Mode

  • Uninstall a program or driver that causes trouble.
  • Run a malware scan.
  • Use System Restore.
  • Update or roll back a driver.

Quick recap

  • msconfig, Boot, Safe boot is the simple way.
  • Shift + Restart works when Windows will not start normally.
  • Undo the msconfig setting when you finish.