Windows Startup Settings (Safe Mode and 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 Windows Settings

1. Open Settings (Windows key + I).
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 the Sign-In Screen

1. At the Windows sign-in screen, hold Shift and select Power > Restart.
2. After the PC restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
3. Click Restart.
4. Press the appropriate number or function key to choose a startup option.

Method 3: Access Startup Settings via Interrupting Normal Boot (if PC won’t start)

1. Power on the PC.
2. As soon as Windows begins loading, hold the power button to force shutdown.
3. Repeat this process 2–3 times until Windows enters Automatic Repair mode.
4. Select Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
5. Click Restart and select the desired startup option.

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Available Startup Settings Options

Key	Option
1 / F1	Enable debugging
2 / F2	Enable boot logging
3 / F3	Enable low-resolution video
4 / F4	Enable Safe Mode
5 / F5	Enable Safe Mode with Networking
6 / F6	Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt
7 / F7	Disable driver signature enforcement
8 / F8	Disable early launch anti-malware protection
9 / F9	Disable automatic restart after failure

Notes

• Safe Mode loads Windows with only essential drivers and services — useful for diagnosing software, driver, or malware issues.
• Safe Mode with Networking includes network drivers, allowing internet access for downloading fixes or tools.
• Safe Mode with Command Prompt is intended for advanced users who prefer command-line troubleshooting.
• Forcing shutdown repeatedly to trigger Automatic Repair should only be used as a last resort, as it may risk data loss or file system corruption.
• These steps apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11.
• After resolving the issue, restart normally to exit Safe Mode — it does not persist across reboots unless manually configured via msconfig.