Which safe mode to use

Windows 11 Upgrade Guide. Select registration option. Error: Javascript is disabled in this browser. This page requires Javascript. Modify your browser's settings to allow Javascript to execute. See your browser's documentation for specific instructions. HP Customer Support. Select your model. How does HP install software and gather data? Learn how to upgrade to Windows 11 Windows 11 Upgrade Guide. Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode that allows you to use Windows with basic drivers.

If you encounter problems in Windows, restarting in Safe Mode allows you to continue working and troubleshoot the problem. The Safe Mode feature does not install any software. In Safe Mode, Windows might look different because Safe Mode uses a low graphics mode for the display.

Also, the words Safe Mode display in the four corners of the screen. Depending on your operating system, do one of the following:. Windows 10 : Search for and open Recovery options. Windows 8 : Search for and open PC Settings. Under Advanced startup , click Restart now. Windows 10 : Click See more recovery options , and then click Startup Settings. Windows 8 : Click Startup Settings. The computer restarts, and another Startup Settings screen opens showing a list of different startup options.

Choose the Safe Mode option you want from the Startup Settings menu:. Let's say one day you go to use your computer and find that your OS just won't start, or maybe it keeps crashing on you. This could be due to any number of reasons, including a virus , malware , corrupt files, or something else entirely.

Safe mode allows you to boot up your OS in a very basic state so you can potentially identify and fix the problem. While in safe mode, your screen resolution may look a bit off , certain applications might not work properly , or your computer may run a bit slower than usual. Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode that allows you to use Windows with basic drivers. No extra software is loaded, so troubleshooting software and driver problems is much easier. Also, the words Safe Mode appear in the four corners of the screen.

This video shows how to enter Safe Mode from Windows 7. Click here to see this video in full screen on YouTube. Turn on the computer and immediately begin pressing the F8 key repeatedly. Click Start , and type msconfig into the Search box. Click msconfig. Figure : Opening the System Configuration tool.

Under Boot options, click Safe boot and select Minimal. Figure : Boot tab of the System Configuration tool. Click Apply , and then click OK. Figure : Restart the computer. When you have finished troubleshooting, exit Safe Mode by opening the System Configuration tool again.