Windows Startup Settings Safe Mode Advanced Boot Options

Windows Startup Settings (Safe Mode & Advanced Boot Options)

Source: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-startup-settings-1af6ec8c-4d4a-4b23-adb7-e76eef0b847f

Type: External SOP

Procedure

Method 1: Access Startup Settings from Within Windows

  1. Open the Start menu and select Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > Recovery.
  3. Under Advanced startup, select Restart now.
  4. After the PC restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  5. Click Restart.
  6. After restarting, a list of options will appear. Press the corresponding number key or function key to select a startup option:
    – 4 or F4 – Enable Safe Mode
    – 5 or F5 – Enable Safe Mode with Networking
    – 6 or F6 – Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Method 2: Access Startup Settings via Shift + Restart

  1. Open the Start menu.
  2. Select Power, then hold Shift and click Restart.
  3. After the PC restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  4. Click Restart.
  5. Select the desired startup option using the number or function keys.

Method 3: Access Startup Settings from the Sign-in Screen

  1. At the Windows sign-in screen, select the Power icon.
  2. Hold Shift and click Restart.
  3. Follow steps 3–5 from Method 2.

Method 4: Boot from a Recovery Drive or Installation Media

  1. Insert a Windows recovery drive or installation USB/DVD.
  2. Boot the PC from the media (may require changing boot order in BIOS/UEFI).
  3. On the installation screen, select Repair your computer.
  4. Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  5. Click Restart and select the desired option.

Notes

  • Safe Mode loads Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services — useful for diagnosing software conflicts, driver issues, and malware.
  • Safe Mode with Networking includes network drivers, allowing internet access for downloading tools or updates during troubleshooting.
  • Safe Mode with Command Prompt opens a command-line interface instead of the standard desktop — intended for advanced users.
  • If Windows cannot boot normally, the Startup Settings menu may appear automatically after failed boot attempts.
  • These steps apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11.
  • Changing boot order in BIOS/UEFI is required for Method 4 and varies by manufacturer — consult the device manual if needed.