How to boot Windows 8/8.1 into Safe Mode

There are two ways to boot into Safe Mode: by using the Startup Settings menu at boot or by using the System Configuration Utility.

Using the Startup Settings menu at boot

  1. Reboot your computer while holding down the Shift key.
  2. You will be presented with a series of blue screens with options. First click Troubleshoot, then click Advanced options, then click Startup Settings, and finally click Restart. Boot menu for Windows 8 Boot menu for Windows 8 Boot menu for Windows 8 Boot menu for Windows 8
  3. Windows will restart and display the Startup Settings menu. Boot menu for Windows 8
  4. Press the 4 or F4 key on your keyboard. Windows will boot in Safe Mode.

Using the System Configuration Utility

  1. Press Win+R on your keyboard (press and hold the Windows key, then press the R key).
  2. In the Run window type msconfig and click OK (or press Enter).
  3. Go to the Boot tab, check the Safe boot option, and click OK.
  4. Click Restart.
To return back to normal mode follow the same steps but this time uncheck the Safe boot option.
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