Safe Mode starts Windows 11 with a limited set of files, drivers, and services. It is useful for troubleshooting problems that do not occur during a normal startup.
How to Start Safe Mode from Settings
- Open Settings.
- Select System > Recovery.
- Next to Advanced startup, select Restart now.
- After Windows restarts, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
- When the Startup Settings list appears, choose Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.
Use Shift + Restart
You can also hold Shift while selecting Power > Restart from the sign-in screen or Start menu. Then use Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
If Windows Will Not Start Normally
Windows can enter the Windows Recovery Environment after repeated failed starts. From recovery, open Startup Settings and choose the appropriate Safe Mode option.
Safe Mode vs. Safe Mode with Networking
Standard Safe Mode starts Windows with a limited set of essential files, drivers, and services. Safe Mode with Networking also loads network-related components needed for network access.
Leaving Safe Mode
In a normal Safe Mode session, restart the PC to return to regular Windows. If you previously forced Safe boot through System Configuration, remove that setting before restarting normally.
Summary
Use Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup, or Shift + Restart, to reach Startup Settings and select Safe Mode.