Safe Mode lets Windows start with a minimal set of drivers and services, which helps troubleshoot startup issues, malware infections, or driver problems. Here are the easiest, supported methods for recent Windows versions (Windows 10, 11, and 8/7 as applicable): Direct steps for Windows 10 and Windows 11 (most common)

• From the sign-in screen:
  • Hold the Shift key, click the Power button, and choose Restart.
  • After the reboot, choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.
  • On the Startup Settings screen, press:
    • 4 to enable Safe Mode
    • 5 to enable Safe Mode with Networking
    • 6 to enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt
• If you can boot to Windows normally:
  • Open Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
  • Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
  • Then Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart, and select Safe Mode as above.

Using System Configuration (msconfig) to boot into Safe Mode

• Open the Run dialog (Windows key + R), type msconfig, and press Enter.
• In the General tab, choose Selective startup or Normal startup as needed, but go to the Boot tab.
• Check Safe boot and choose Minimal (standard Safe Mode), or Network (Safe Mode with Networking), or Alternate shell (Command Prompt Safe Mode).
• Apply, then OK, and restart when prompted.

Using the Boot Menu (press F8 is disabled on modern PCs)

• If your PC still supports legacy boot options:
  • Reboot and repeatedly press F8 (or Shift+F8 on some keyboards) during startup to reach the Advanced Boot Options menu.
  • Use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode and press Enter.
• Note: On most newer devices, F8 is disabled by default; use the Shift-Restart method described above.

Recovery environment when Windows cannot start

• Power on, then force shut down as Windows starts loading, repeat 3 times to trigger Automatic Repair.
• Choose Advanced options → Troubleshoot → Startup Settings → Restart, then pick Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking.

What to expect in Safe Mode

• Only essential system services and drivers run, so some apps and features (like your antivirus, network drives, or peripherals) may be unavailable.
• If you suspect malware or problematic drivers, Safe Mode is a good environment to run scans, update drivers, or uninstall recently added software.

If you tell me your Windows version (Windows 10, 11, or older) and whether you can access the desktop, I can tailor the exact steps and menu labels for you.