Windows Safe Mode

Troubleshooting Problems in Windows 10 & Windows 11

What Is Safe Mode?

Safe Mode is a special way to start your computer that loads only the most basic files and drivers. Think of it like starting your car with only the essential systems running — enough to drive to the mechanic.

This helps you figure out if the issue is caused by Windows itself, or something else like a program you installed, a driver, or even a virus.

Common Reasons to Use Safe Mode:

• Your computer is running very slowly
• You see a blue screen error
• Apps keep crashing or freezing
• Your screen goes black after login
• You suspect a virus or bad software

How to Enter Safe Mode in Windows 10 & Windows 11

There are two main ways to get into Safe Mode:

Method 1: If Your PC Can Start Normally

1. Click the Start Menu and then the Power button (like you’re going to shut down).
2. Hold the Shift key, and while holding it, click Restart.
3. Your PC will restart and show a blue screen with options.
4. Click:
   • Troubleshoot
   • Advanced options
   • Startup Settings
   • Then click Restart
5. When your computer restarts, you’ll see a list of options.
   Press:
   • 4 to start in Safe Mode
   • 5 to start in Safe Mode with Networking (if you need the internet)

Method 2: If Your PC Won’t Start Properly

If Windows crashes or fails to boot multiple times, it should automatically take you to the Recovery Screen.

1. On that screen, choose Advanced options
2. Follow the same steps as above:
   • Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Settings → Restart → Press 4 or 5

Other Troubleshooting Tools in Windows 10 & 11

Here are some simple tools you can try before or after Safe Mode:

Restart Your PC

It sounds basic, but many issues go away with a restart. Don’t skip this step!

Use Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense

If your PC is slow, it might be because your storage is full.

• Press Windows + S, search for “Disk Cleanup” or “Storage Settings”
• Remove temporary files and empty the Recycle Bin

Run Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in troubleshooters for common problems like internet, audio, and updates.

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
• Select the issue you’re facing and let Windows try to fix it

System Restore

If something recently broke your PC (after installing a program or update), you can roll back your system to a previous point.

• Type “System Restore” in the search bar
• Follow the wizard to restore to a known good state

Uninstall Problematic Programs

If your issues started after installing a certain program or driver, try removing it in Safe Mode:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings
• Go to Apps and remove the suspected app

Update Windows & Drivers

Sometimes bugs are fixed with updates.

• Go to Settings > Windows Update
• Install all available updates

Summary

Tool	What It Helps With
Safe Mode	Starts Windows with minimal features for diagnosis
Disk Cleanup	Frees up space and improves speed
Troubleshooter	Fixes common issues automatically
System Restore	Reverts your system to an earlier point
Uninstall Apps	Removes software causing issues
Windows Update	Fixes bugs and security issues