Monday 4 August 2025

Windows 11 Safe Mode: Guide to entering Safe Mode

11 Windows Safe Mode

Windows 11 Safe Mode: How to enter Safe Mode

Safe Mode in Windows 11 is one of the most important troubleshooting tools available in Microsoft's operating system. It is a special operating state where the system loads only the absolutely necessary programs and drivers, allowing users to diagnose and resolve problems that may be preventing the computer from functioning normally.

What is Safe Mode?

Safe mode is a diagnostic state of Windows that loads the system with its basic functions. In this mode, the system:

Features of Safe Mode
  • Loads only necessary system drivers
  • Disables programs that start with the system
  • Uses basic screen resolution
  • Limits network functionality (except for networking mode)
  • Displays "Safe Mode" in the corners of the screen
When is Safe Mode needed?

There are many cases where safe mode can save you from serious problems:

! Common Reasons for Use
The system does not boot normally due to problematic drivers
Presence of malware that prevents normal operation
Problems with newly installed programs
System errors that cause constant reboots
Need to remove problematic software
Running system diagnostic tools
Methods of Accessing Safe Mode
1 Through Windows Settings (If the system is working)

This is the easiest method when you can log in to Windows normally:

Click Windows + I to open Settings
Navigate to System → Recovery
In the "Advanced startup" section, click "Restart now"
The system will reboot and the Advanced Startup menu will appear.
Select - Επιλέξτε Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings
Click on "Restart"
Click 4 ή F4 for Safe Mode
2 Via Shift + Restart

A quick method from the Start Menu:

Click the button Start
Right-click on the start button and select, shutdown or exit
hold the Shift and click "Restart"
Follow steps 5-7 from the previous method
3 Via Command Prompt

For advanced users who prefer the command line:

Click Windows + R
Type cmd and type the command: shutdown /r /o /f /t 00
The system will reboot to the Advanced Startup menu.
4 During Startup (Force Restart Method)

When the system does not boot normally:

Turn on the computer and wait for the Windows logo to appear.
Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.
Repeat this process 2-3 times
On the third boot, Windows will automatically enter the Recovery Environment.
Follow the route: Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart
Important Warning

The force restart method should only be used when absolutely necessary, as it can cause data loss if there are open files.

Types of Safe Operation

Windows 11 offers three different types of safe mode:

F4 Safe Mode (Basic Safe Mode)

Loads only the essential programs and services without internet access. Ideal for:

  • Malware removal
  • Fix driver problems
  • Uninstalling problematic programs
F5 Safe Mode with Networking

Includes all the features of the basic Safe Mode plus internet access. Useful for:

  • Download and install driver updates
  • Search for solutions online
  • Use of cloud-based antivirus programs
F6 Safe Mode with Command Prompt

It loads the basic safe mode but instead of the graphical interface, it opens the command prompt directly. Ideal for:

  • Advanced troubleshooting
  • Running diagnostic commands
  • System repair via commands
Useful Actions in Safe Mode
Common Tasks

When you are in safe mode, you can perform several useful actions:

  • System File Checker: Execute sfc / scannow for system file check
  • Disk Check: Use chkdsk to check the hard disk
  • System Restore: Restoring the system to a previous state
  • Uninstall Programs: Removing problematic applications
  • Update Drivers: Update or roll back drivers
  • Run Antivirus: Run a full scan for malware
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you can't enter Safe Mode
  • Try using an external bootable media (USB/DVD)
  • Check if the "Fast Startup" option is enabled in the power settings
  • Use Windows Recovery Environment from external media
  • If the problem persists, you may need repair or reinstallation.
Exiting Safe Mode

To return to normal Windows operation:

Just restart the computer normally
The system will automatically boot into normal mode.
If it remains in safe mode, press Windows + R
Type msconfig and press Enter
On the "Boot" tab, uncheck "Safe boot"
Click OK and reboot.

Conclusion

Windows 11 Safe Mode is an invaluable tool for any computer user. Whether you are experiencing serious system issues or just want to perform a safe diagnostic procedure, knowing the various access methods can save you time and trouble. Always remember to back up your important data and be careful when performing advanced diagnostic procedures. With the methods presented in this article, you will now be able to deal with most of the problems that may arise on your Windows 11.


Evangelos
✍️ Evangelos
Its creator LoveForTechnology.net — an independent and trusted source for tech guides, tools, software, and practical solutions. Each article is based on personal testing, evidence-based research, and care for the average user. Here, technology is presented simply and clearly.



RELATED TOPICS


💬 Comments

Share your thoughts

Loading comments...