How to Boot into Safe Mode in Windows 10

Windows is started in a basic state, with only a few files and drivers installed. Default settings and basic device drivers aren’t causing the problem if it doesn’t happen in safe mode. You can narrow down the source of a problem and troubleshoot problems on your PC by observing Windows in safe mode.

Safe Mode and Safe Mode with Networking is the two types of safe mode. The network drivers and services you’ll need to access the internet and other computers on your network are added to Safe Mode with Networking.

To learn how to start your PC in safe mode from Settings, the sign-in screen, or a blank screen, go to the sections below.

Step-by-step procedure

via Settings

1. Press Windows logo key + I on your keyboard to open Settings. If that doesn’t work, select the Start button, then select Settings.
2. Select Update & Security > Recovery.
3. Under Advanced startup, select Restart now.
4. After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. You may be asked to enter your BitLocker recovery key.
5. After your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Select 4 or press F4 to start your PC in Safe Mode. Or if you’ll need to use the internet, select 5 or press F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.

via the Sign-in Screen

1. On the Windows sign-in screen, press and hold the Shift key while you select Power > Restart.
2. After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. You may be asked to enter your BitLocker recovery key.
3. After your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Select 4 or F4 to start your PC in safe mode. Or if you’ll need to use the internet, select 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking.

Reference

• Start your PC in safe mode in Windows (microsoft.com)