How to boot into Safe mode Windows 10

This post is a step by step guide with pictures to help you boot into safe mode in Windows 10. Safe Mode in Windows 10 is a part of the advanced startup or diagnostic startup feature of Windows. With this you get almost all the troubleshooting options of Windows 10 at one place. Booting into safe mode is a rather convenient choice if:

  • You wish to remove a faulty device driver
  • need to troubleshoot a specific problem related to apps and programs
  • To make sure your core Windows installation is working fine
  • & a lot of other troubleshooting stuff

Safe Mode in Windows comprises of just the most basic system files & device drivers, the ones most essential for Windows to start. This mode helps you diagnose most of the problems associated with Windows, that might not let your PC start correctly.

How to boot Windows 10 safe mode:

Scenario 1: Through Lock Screen OR Start Menu

  • Press & Hold the Shift key on your keyboard
  • While Holding the shift key, Click on Restart

diagnostic_startup_Windows10

diagnostic_options_windows_10

  • Now, from the menu Click on Troubleshoot
  • From the menu that follows, Click on Advanced Options

Troubleshoot_advanced_options_windows_10

  • Now, from the menu that comes,
  • Click on Startup Settings

startup_options_repair_windows10

  • And, Click on Restart

safe_mode_windows10

  • Now, you will get a screen with options just like in the screengrab below

safe_mode

  • Press 4 on your keyboard
  • Your Windows 10 is now booting into safe mode
  • Enter your Account Password, when prompted
  • After the booting completes, your desktop will change to a black wallpaper
  • The screen should look something like this

safe_mode_boot_windows_10

 

Scenario 2: Through bootable media | Recovery Drive

In this scenario, most of the options remain exactly the same as mentioned above, the only thing that changes is the way you get to the troubleshoot Screen

  • Insert your Recovery or Installation DVD/USB into the drive/slot
  • Boot from the said media
  • When prompted, Select your keyboard layout
  • From the screen that follows,
  • Click on Troubleshoot & follow the steps as mentioned above