Windows 11 in Safe Mode is a special diagnostic mode in Windows that starts the system with minimal drivers and services. It helps troubleshoot issues such as driver conflicts, malware infections, or software crashes.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to start Windows 11 in Safe Mode using several different methods, depending on whether your system is working normally or not.

What Is Safe Mode in Windows 11?

Safe Mode loads Windows with only essential components.

This means:

Unnecessary drivers are disabled
Startup programs do not run
Only basic system services start

Because of this, Safe Mode is very useful when diagnosing system problems.

If you are troubleshooting major issues, you may also want to review common Windows 11 problems and fixes.

Method 1: Start Safe Mode Using Settings

If Windows is working normally, this is the easiest method.

Steps

Open Settings
Click System
Select Recovery
Under Advanced startup, click Restart now
Select Troubleshoot
Click Advanced options
Select Startup Settings
Click Restart

After restarting, press:

4 > Safe Mode
5 > Safe Mode with Networking
6 > Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Method 2: Start Safe Mode Using Shift + Restart

This is another quick method.

Steps

Open the Start menu
Click the Power button
Hold Shift
Click Restart

Your computer will open the recovery environment.

From there follow:

Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings

Method 3: Start Safe Mode When Windows Won’t Boot

If your system cannot start normally, Safe Mode can still be accessed.

Steps

Turn on your PC
When Windows begins loading, force shut down the PC
Repeat this 3 times

Windows will automatically open Recovery Mode.

Then choose:

Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings

Types of Safe Mode

Windows 11 offers three Safe Mode options.

Safe Mode

Loads minimal drivers and services.

Safe Mode with Networking

Adds internet access for downloading drivers or updates.

Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Opens a command-line interface for advanced troubleshooting.