Windows 7: Start Safe Mode

Safe Mode only loads basic device drivers and programs. Mostly this is needed to detect and fix problems with the Windows PC. It is also possible to quickly enter Safe Mode in Windows 7.

How do you get into Safe Mode in Windows 7?

1. Restart your computer or turn it on.
2. Press the F8 key again and again immediately after turning it on. This must be done before the Windows logo is visible.
3. Now you should see a screen with a black background and white text.
4. The screen will show various startup options. Use the arrow keys to select safe mode and confirm with "Enter". It is also possible to select "safe mode with network drivers" and "safe mode with command prompt" from the list.
5. Windows 7 will now start in safe mode. Note that the graphics can not be displayed as usual, because no drivers are loaded.
6. If you have already started Windows 7, you can also get into safe mode via the Run dialog.
7. To do this, enter the command "msconfig", switch to the "Start" tab in the system configuration and click first on "Safe Start" and then "OK".

Different Safe Modes

• Safe Mode: Windows is loaded with the most important drivers, services and processes. This is most commonly used when an installed driver causes system startup problems.
• Safe Mode with Network Drivers: In addition to the functions of the "Safe Mode", this offers the possibility to perform a data backup on a shared drive on the network. You can also load data from there.
• Safe Mode with Command Prompt: The system starts in the same way as in "Safe Mode". However, instead of the Windows desktop, taskbar and Start menu, a command prompt is displayed.