How to Start Windows 11 in Safe Mode
Safe Mode in Windows 11 starts your PC with only the basic drivers and services it needs to run, which helps you fix stubborn computer problems. When your screen goes black or programs keep crashing, this special troubleshooting mode loads a clean version of Windows without extra software getting in the way.
You can use Safe Mode to track down bad drivers, remove stubborn malware, or fix the exact update that broke your PC. If your computer runs normally in this diagnostic state, you know a recent app or hardware driver caused the issue.
Access advanced startup options by holding Shift while clicking Restart from the Power menu. Then, navigate to Troubleshoot Advanced options Startup Settings and press the corresponding number key for your desired Safe Mode.
Types of Safe Mode:
- Safe Mode: Starts Windows with only basic drivers and no internet.
- Safe Mode with Networking: Starts Windows with basic drivers plus internet and network access.
- Safe Mode with Command Prompt: Starts Windows with basic drivers and opens a command window instead of the normal desktop. This is for advanced users.
Windows 11 includes three distinct variants depending on the repair task. Standard Safe Mode loads minimal drivers without internet access. Safe Mode with Networking tacks on internet connectivity for downloading fixes. Safe Mode with Command Prompt drops the graphical desktop entirely for a command line interface.
How to Start Safe Mode in 🪟 Windows 11
Option 1Use Advanced Startup Settings
Advanced Startup handles the heavy lifting when Windows refuses to boot normally. Restarting the PC and selecting troubleshoot options from the recovery screen guides the setup toward specific Safe Mode choices.
- Click the Start button, then click the Power icon.
- Hold the Shift key and click Restart.
- Your computer will restart and show a blue screen with options. Click Troubleshoot.
- Click Advanced options.
- Click Startup Settings.
- Click Restart.
- When your PC restarts, you will see a list of options. Press the number key or function key for the Safe Mode you want:
| Key to Press | Mode |
|---|---|
| 4 or F4 | Safe Mode |
| 5 or F5 | Safe Mode with Networking |
| 6 or F6 | Safe Mode with Command Prompt |
Option 2Use System Configuration (msconfig)
The System Configuration utility (msconfig) offers a direct route into Safe Mode. Pre-selecting the exact diagnostic environment before a reboot proves particularly useful when internet or command access remains necessary.
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - In the window that opens, click the Boot tab.
- Under Boot options, check Safe boot.
- Choose the type of Safe Mode you want:
- Minimal: Standard Safe Mode
- Network: Safe Mode with Networking
- Alternate shell: Safe Mode with Command Prompt
- Click OK.
- You will be asked to restart your computer. Click Restart to enter Safe Mode.
Option 3Use Command Prompt
Command-line workflows provide another pathway into diagnostic states. Elevating the Command Prompt grants the administrative power needed to configure boot parameters dynamically.
- Open Windows Terminal or Command Prompt as an administrator. To do this, right-click the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
- Type one of the following commands and press Enter:
| Command | What it Does |
|---|---|
bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimal | Start in Safe Mode |
bcdedit /set {current} safeboot network | Start in Safe Mode with Networking |
bcdedit /set {current} safeboot minimalbcdedit /set {current} safebootalternateshell yes
| Start in Safe Mode with Command Prompt |
bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safebootbcdedit /deletevalue {current} safebootalternateshell
| Return to Normal Mode |
Executing the command requires a subsequent system reboot to trigger the environment.
Option 4Use Command Prompt at Boot
Pre-boot command line environments require specific sequences:
- Type
bcdeditand press Enter. - Look for the identifier under the Windows Boot Loader section (usually
{default}). - Use the same commands as Option 3 but replace
{current}with your identifier (for example,{default}). - Restart your computer to apply changes.
Important Tips
- Use Safe Mode to find and fix problems by running only essential parts of Windows.
- Choose the Safe Mode version that fits your needs (with or without internet or command prompt).
- After fixing your problem, make sure to restart your computer normally.
Running bare-bones Windows isolates stubborn software conflicts quickly. Normal reboots resume standard operations once repairs finish.
Is F8 Safe Mode for 🪟 Windows 11?
Hi Andrew, getting into Safe Mode on Windows 11 presents hurdles because legacy shortcuts like F8 no longer function. Modern boot speeds process startup tasks too fast for physical key presses to register, making recovery environments the necessary alternative.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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