How to start Windows 10 in Safe Mode

Curtis Moldrich Read more February 15, 2016

If you are having issues with your Windows 10 installation, it might be a good idea to start your computer in Safe Mode. It is best to think of Safe Mode as a stripped-down version of Windows, as it only starts up with the basic files and essentials for Windows and nothing more. If your issue does not occur when your computer is in Safe Mode, you will know that it is not related to Windows 10’s default files or drivers. Sound useful? If so, here are two ways to boot your machine up in Safe Mode.

How to boot up a Windows 10 PC in Safe Mode from Settings

If you are already logged into Windows 10, it is possible to reboot your computer in Safe Mode with a few simple clicks. First, head to Settings by pressing Windows+I, or by going to Start Menu then Settings.
Go to Update & Security then Recovery.
Select Advanced-start up | Restart now. This will make your PC Restart to a special Choose an option screen.
On the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot | Advanced options | Start-up Settings | Restart.
Once your PC has booted up again and you reach the sign-in screen, select option 4 or press F4 to start your PC in Safe Mode. If you also need to browse the internet while in safe mode, select option 5 or hit F5 to use Safe Mode with Networking.

How to boot up a Windows 10 PC in Safe Mode from the sign-in screen

After restarting your PC, hold the Shift key down while you select Power | Restart.
Once your PC has restarted for the second time, you will see a list of options on the sign-in screen. Select option 4 or press F4 to start your PC in Safe Mode. If you also need to browse the internet while in safe mode, selection option 5 or hit F5 to use Safe Mode with Networking.