21thsoft: How to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode

Nearly every version of Windows has a Safe Mode feature. This lets you start your computer with just the basic files and drivers it needs to run. Most extra features will be disabled, and programs will run more slowly. By default, you won't even have internet access.

Safe Mode isn't meant to be used every day. You'll use Safe Mode when your computer isn't working correctly, or when it won't start up at all. By only loading the essentials, it'll help you narrow down what's causing the problem, which can include the system itself or something you installed.

Here's how to boot in Safe Mode, and exit it when you're done.

How to boot in Safe Mode in Windows 10

There are many ways to enter Safe Mode. Here are the three easiest:

Using the Power icon

If you're signed in:

1. Click the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner.

2. Hold down the Shift key, click the Power icon and then Restart.

3. Your computer will restart and open to a blue screen titled Choose an option. Select Troubleshoot, and then Advanced options.

4. Click Startup Settings, and then Restart. Your computer will turn off and on again.

5. Once the screen comes back, you'll be given a few options. Press 4 to start your computer in Safe Mode, or 5 to start Safe Mode with internet access.

Using the Settings app

1. Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I.

2. Click Update & Security, and then Recovery.

3. On this page, underneath Advanced startup, click Restart now.

4. Your computer will restart on the Choose an option screen. Here, click Troubleshoot, and then Advanced options.

5. Select Startup Settings and then Restart.

6. When your computer boots back up, you'll be given some startup options. Press 4 to start your computer in Safe Mode, or 5 to start Safe Mode with internet access.

Holding down the power button

This is the method to use if you can't boot into Windows normally.

1. Press your PC's power button to turn it on.

2. As soon as you see something appear on the screen — probably the manufacturer's logo — hold down the power button until the PC turns off again.

3. Do this two more times, and then turn your PC on. As it's starting, the words Preparing Automatic Repair will appear at the bottom of the screen. Let your PC go through this process — it should eventually boot into the Choose an option screen.