Windows Startup Settings Safe Mode Advanced Options

Windows Startup Settings (Safe Mode & Advanced 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. Select Restart.
  6. After the PC restarts again, choose from the available startup options by pressing the corresponding number or function key:
    – F4 – Enable Safe Mode
    – F5 – Enable Safe Mode with Networking
    – F6 – Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Method 2: Access Startup Settings via Login Screen

  1. At the Windows login screen, hold Shift and select Power > Restart.
  2. After the PC restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  3. Select Restart.
  4. Choose the desired startup option using the corresponding number or function key.

Method 3: Access Startup Settings via Interrupt at Boot

  1. Power on the PC.
  2. When Windows begins to load, press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds to force a shutdown.
  3. Repeat this process two more times (three interrupted boots total).
  4. On the third restart, Windows will automatically enter Automatic Repair / Recovery Environment.
  5. Select Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  6. Select Restart and choose the desired option.

Notes

  • Safe Mode loads Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services — useful for diagnosing driver conflicts, malware, or software issues.
  • Safe Mode with Networking includes network drivers, allowing internet access for downloading fixes or tools.
  • Safe Mode with Command Prompt loads only a command-line interface — useful for advanced troubleshooting.
  • The forced shutdown method (Method 3) should only be used when you cannot access Settings or the login screen.
  • Repeatedly forcing shutdowns during normal operation can risk data corruption — use only when necessary.
  • These instructions apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11.