How to boot Windows 11 in safe mode
Windows 11 is new, and as time goes on, it will run into the usual problems that plague a Windows’ system. Problems with drivers, overclocking software, networking tools, and the myriad of other tools and apps that Windows’ users install will eventually lead to some sort of system instability. One of the many ways to fix a problem or diagnose it, is to boot Windows in Safe mode.
Windows 11 safe mode
There are several different ways to boot Windows 11 into safe mode. Some are easier to use than others but the method you use will depend on what is and isn’t working on your system.
1. Settings app
To boot Windows 11 into safe mode from the Settings app.
- Open the Settings app with the Win+I keyboard shortcut.
- Go to System.
- Select Recovery.
- Expand Recovery options.
- Click Restart now on Advanced Startup.
- You will boot to the troubleshoot menu.
- Go to Advanced Options>Startup settings>Restart.
- Select the Boot in safe mode option.
- Allow the system to restart.
2. Start Menu
You can boot to safe mode via the Start menu. You will follow the same course i.e., through the troubleshoot menu but to get to it, you can use the Start menu. If you’re unable to open the Settings app, this is a good alternative route to take.
- Open the Start Menu.
- Click the power button.
- Hold down the Shift key and click Restart from the power options.
- The system will restart and boot to the troubleshoot menu.
- Go to Advanced Options>Startup settings>Restart.
- Select the Boot in safe mode option.
- Allow the system to restart.
3. Windows installation media
If you’re unable to boot to your desktop, you may still be able to get Windows 11 to boot in safe mode. You need a Windows 11 installation disk.
- Boot your computer in BIOS.
- Change the first boot device to USB.
- Connect the Windows 11 installation disk to your system.
- Restart the system and it will boot from the installation disk.
- Select the Repair option.
- Go to Troubleshoot>Advanced Options>Startup settings>Restart.
- Select the Boot in safe mode option.
- Allow the system to restart.
Conclusion
You can exit safe mode on Windows 11 by restarting the system. Safe mode has a networking and networking disabled option. You can select which one you want to boot to from the troubleshoot menu. With networking disabled, your system won’t be able to connect to a WiFi or LAN network. If you’re troubleshooting an app that needs an internet connection, make sure you boot into safe mode with networking enabled. If you’re trying to roll back a driver update and/or try to keep an update from installing, use safe mode with networking disabled.
