In this article we will tell you how to start safe mode in Windows 11, what it is and what it is for, and how to exit it.

If you have come this far, it is very likely that you are wondering how to start safe mode in Windows 11 . In this article we will give you all the answers in reference to this operating system startup mode.

In addition to explaining how to start safe mode in Windows 11 , in the following sections we will also tell you what exactly it is and what it is for. Finally, we explain how to exit safe mode after starting it.

Index of contents

• What is safe mode and what is it for in Windows 11?
• How to start safe mode in Windows 11
  • Start safe mode with reset button
  • Start safe mode with system settings
• What does safe mode look like in Windows 11?
• How to get out of safe mode in Windows 11?

What is safe mode and what is it for in Windows 11?

Safe mode is a diagnostic tool that runs Windows with the basic software for its operation. In this way, you disable all third-party applications and hardware drivers that are not strictly necessary. Therefore, expendable components stop working and others do it in a basic way, such as the graphics card.

The main function of safe mode is to help detect what is failing during the startup and execution of the operating system. It is also frequently used to remove malicious files or viruses from the computer. Since Windows runs at its lowest version, it is very easy to determine if the problem is coming from third-party software or if there is something really wrong with the system itself.

Safe mode has different variants. They are as follows:

• Safe mode. This is the simplest mode you can use in Windows 11. It only gives you access to the basic interface and is ideal to check if the error on your computer comes from the network adapter, as it is not enabled automatically. It is also perfect for isolating your computer from other devices on the network.
• Safe mode with networking. In this case, the drivers, applications, and other loaded tools are exactly the same as in safe mode. The difference is that it does allow access to the local network and the Internet.
• Safe mode with command prompt. Be careful with this modality. It is necessary to know closely what are the main commands of the command prompt, because the interface will not be present. This means that neither the taskbar nor the desktop icons will be visible. Only one window is shown in which to type the commands. If you have entered this mode by mistake, use the shutdown / s command  to exit.

How to start safe mode in Windows 11

Safe mode in Windows 11 can be started in a number of ways. Here we leave you two that are truly simple.

Start safe mode with reset button

The easiest way to access safe mode is with the Restart button  on the start menu. But beware! Just clicking on it is not enough. You need to press it at the same time that you press the Shift key  .

The result of doing so is that the computer will display the advanced startup options. Use your keyboard or mouse to select  Troubleshoot .

Next, open  Advanced Options to see all the tools to repair your computer.

Among them, you should opt for  Startup Settings . Click on it to continue.

Finally, click on  Restart . The team will restart, although not in the usual way.

During startup, the Startup Settings will appear  . Here you must select the option that best suits your needs. Safe mode is activated by pressing the F4, F5 or F6 keys. If you want to know more about each variant, see the explanation that we have given at the beginning of this article. In most cases, selecting the Safe Mode with Networking option  will be more than sufficient.

Then wait for the computer to start with most of the system components disabled.

Start safe mode with system settings

Another way to start safe mode is with Windows 11 settings. Do it as follows:

1. Open the Settingsapp  .
2. Access the Systemsection  to see the options related to Windows.
3. Enter  Recovery.
4. In the Advancedstartup section use the Restart now button  .

With these steps you will achieve the same effect as with  Shift + Restart . Follow the instructions that we have given you in the previous section to get to safe mode in Windows 11.

What does safe mode look like in Windows 11?

The appearance of safe mode in Windows 11 is very similar to what it had in previous versions . The wallpaper is completely removed and replaced by a plain black one. In addition, the phrase appears in the corners of the screen M odo insurance . And, if you look at the top, you will see that the build number and the Windows version are indicated.

In general terms, the behavior of the computer is very similar to the usual one. However, if you use tools that start with the system, such as Google Drive, OneDrive or Discord, they will not launch when you turn on the computer . But, that does not mean that these tools do not work. Rather, you will need to run them manually. Some built-in components are also not available in Windows 11. For example, during our testing we were unable to use search to locate files and applications.

Finally, you should know that there are many other aspects of the system that do work. Window animations are enabled. You can also take screenshots with the Windows + Print screen shortcut  . It is even possible to use most keyboard combinations.

How to get out of safe mode in Windows 11?

If you have managed to detect what was wrong with your computer thanks to the safe mode in Windows 11 , we are happy! One of the objectives of this article was precisely that. However, once it has served its purpose, safe mode is no longer necessary. Do you want to know how to get out of it?

To exit safe mode in Windows 11, all you have to do is restart your computer. You can use the method that you like the most or that you use most frequently. Whether you use the Restart button  on the start menu or opt for the Alt + F4 option  , the next time Windows starts, Safe Mode will be gone.