While Windows is a versatile and powerful operating system, it can be particularly frustrating at times, particularly after installing a new hardware component, updating drivers, or updating to the latest version available. If you find yourself with a computer with freeze problems or that continually crashes, the only way to try to stem the problem is to start the Windows 11 operating system safe mode. It is a special mode that allows you to solve critical problems, returning to normal system operation once the operation is complete. Here we have explained what Windows 11 Safe Mode is and several ways to access it, so you can solve problems related to starting and running Windows.
What is Windows 11 Safe Mode?
Windows 11 Safe mode is a special way for Windows to start when there is a critical system problem that interferes with normal operations: if a driver is not properly installed or a hardware component creates problems with Windows the system may exhibit abnormal behaviour. It was created for troubleshooting, allowing you to determine the cause and act accordingly; once the problem is corrected, the user can return to using Windows in normal mode.
So, How to start safe mode? Windows will automatically load this special mode if serious system instability problems are detected, but users can also access it manually, for example by rebooting in safe mode within a normal Windows session.
Steps to boot Windows 11 into Safe mode
The easiest way to start safe mode is from within the operating system, using the Settings menu before restarting the device.
Step 1: Press the Windows + I keys to open the Settings or go to Start and search for “Settings”
Step 2: Select Update and Security and click on the Recovery option.
Step 3: In the Advanced Startup section press the Restart Now button.
Step 4: Wait for the PC to restart and from the blue screen that will appear choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart.
Step 5: Among the options related to the start, choose the number 4 to start in safe mode, or the number 5 to also have support for Internet connectivity.
How to exit Windows 11 Safe Mode?
To exit safe mode, you can simply restart the PC, and Windows 11 will load the system normally. Alternatively, you can press the Windows + R key combination, and type msconfig into the Run Dialog and press OK, then go to the Startup tab and in Startup Options uncheck the Safe Mode box. This will ensure normal functionality when the system is restarted.
You may also like to read: How to enable Windows 11 Sandbox to safely test apps
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