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How to Boot Windows 11 in Safe Mode

Updated Feb 13, 2026
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The Problem: You installed a bad driver or software, and now Windows keeps crashing. You need to fix it, but you can't get to the desktop.

The Short Answer: Safe Mode forces Windows to load with only the most basic drivers. It strips away all third-party software so you can uninstall the problem.

Methods

Method 1: From Settings

Use this method if you can still log into Windows normally.

  1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
  2. Next to "Advanced startup", click Restart now.
  3. Wait for the blue screen.

Method 2: Shift + Restart

Use this if you can reach the login screen but cannot log in.

CRITICAL TIMING You must hold the Shift key BEFORE you click Restart and KEEP HOLDING it until the screen goes blue. Do not let go.
  1. Click the Power icon on the lock screen.
  2. Hold down Shift.
  3. Click Restart.

Method 3: Interrupt Boot

Use this if Windows triggers a black screen immediately (the "Boot Loop").

IMPORTANT NOTE This feels wrong, but you must force-kill the power 3 times in a row. This triggers the automatic "Preparing Automatic Repair" failsafe.
  1. Turn on your PC.
  2. As soon as the circling dots appear, hold the power button for 10 seconds to kill it.
  3. Repeat this 3 times.
  4. Windows will admit defeat and open the Repair menu.
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Final Steps (For All Methods)

Once you are on the blue "Choose an option" screen:

PRO TIP Press 4 for clear Safe Mode or 5 for "Safe Mode with Networking" if you need to download drivers from the internet.
  1. Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  2. Click Restart.
  3. Press 4.

Still Not Fixed?

If Safe Mode crashes too, your hardware (RAM or Hard Drive) might be failing.