

This could be due to any number of reasons, including a virus, malware, corrupt files, or something else entirely. 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. However, when you start up in safe mode, only the minimum number of drivers needed to run the computer are loaded (usually just the mouse, keyboard, and display drivers). Normally, when you boot up your computer, it loads a lot of drivers, which are programs that allow your operating system (OS) to communicate with other devices and software. Safe mode is an alternate way of starting up your computer so it's only using the essential programs needed to run. en/basic-computer-skills/how-to-defragment-your-hard-drive/content/ Starting a computer in safe mode That said, there are instances where you may want the modern menu, so we’re going to show you how to disable F8 safe mode, too.Lesson 19: Starting a Computer in Safe Mode After all, spamming F8 for safe mode at boot is much easier than manually clicking through interfaces or running PowerShell commands. This one takes a little pre-planning but works out much faster in the long run. We’ve covered several ways to access advanced startup options in the past. As a result, many feel that, though less modern, the legacy advanced boot options are actually the better choice. Instead of large icons that can each have sub-options, everything you need is displayed in a simple list.

Thankfully, there’s a way to enable F8 Safe Mode in Windows 10, which is officially referred to as Legacy Advanced Boot Options.Īs well as invoking nostalgia, the simple black screen displayed when you open the Windows 10 boot menu with F8 is easier to navigate. Unfortunately, Microsoft has done away with the hotkey in recent times, leaving many confused. If you used older versions of Windows for a significant period of time, the F8 key will be burned into your muscle memory as soon as you run into issues.
