How to turn off safe mode on Windows 11 or Windows 10

Depending on how you entered safe mode, you can use different methods to turn it off, such as restarting your PC, using System Configuration, or using Command Prompt.

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Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows 10 and Windows 11, designed to help you troubleshoot various problems with your PC. In safe mode, windows starts with a minimal set of drivers and system services, allowing you to isolate problems caused by third-party software or malfunctioning drivers. Safe Mode is typically helpful in troubleshooting Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors, System crashes or freezes, Driver conflicts, Software installation issues or startup problems. While Safe Mode can be a lifesaver when troubleshooting problems, it can also be frustrating if you’re stuck in it. This article explores How to turn off safe mode and return to normal operation on Windows 11 and Windows 10.

How to exit safe mode Windows PC

Usually, To exit Safe Mode, you only need to restart your PC. However, If that doesn’t work, try using System Configuration to configure your system or edit Boot Config Data using Command Prompt.

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Restart your PC to exit safe mode

The simple and quick way to exit safe mode is to restart your PC. This will usually boot your PC normally unless there is a problem with your system configuration or boot options.

  • To restart your PC, click on the Start button, then select Power > Restart.
  • Alternatively, you can press Ctrl+Alt+Delete and choose Restart from the menu.

Restart windows 11

Use System Configuration

If restarting your PC does not work, you may need to use the System Configuration utility to change your boot options and turn off safe mode. This utility allows you to configure how Windows starts up, including whether it boots in safe mode or not.

  • Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  • Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open the System Configuration utility.
  • Switch to the Boot tab, and Uncheck the “Safe boot” option.
  • Click Apply and then OK, Restart your computer when prompted to exit Safe Mode.

turn off safe mode on system configuration

This should disable safe mode and boot your PC normally.

Use Command Prompt

Also, you can use the command prompt to edit the Boot Configuration Data (BCD), and instruct your PC to turn off safe mode boot option. The BCD is a file that stores information about how Windows boots up, including whether it uses safe mode or not.

  • First, open the command prompt with administrator privileges. Press the Windows key then type cmd, right-click on the command prompt select run as administrator.
  • Type command bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot and hit Enter.

Command to exit safe mode

  • Once the command has been executed successfully, close the command prompt and restart windows.
  • This should remove the safe boot option from the BCD and boot your PC normally.


Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is my computer stuck in Safe Mode?

Your computer may be stuck in Safe Mode due to various reasons, such as a recent system crash, driver conflict, or malware infection. Follow the steps in this guide to exit Safe Mode and troubleshoot the underlying issue.

Can I access the internet in Safe Mode?

  • Yes, you can access the internet in Safe Mode with Networking by pressing the F5 key during startup. This allows you to download updates or perform online troubleshooting tasks while in Safe Mode.

Will exiting Safe Mode delete any of my files or settings?

  • No, exiting Safe Mode will not delete any of your files or settings. Safe Mode temporarily disables non-essential services and drivers to facilitate troubleshooting but does not make any permanent changes to your system.

Can I exit Safe Mode without restarting my computer?

  • No, exiting Safe Mode typically requires a restart to ensure a return to normal operation.

What’s the difference between Safe Mode and Safe Mode with Networking?

  • Safe Mode with Networking includes network drivers, allowing internet access. Standard Safe Mode only loads essential drivers, excluding networking capabilities.

Is there a keyboard shortcut to exit Safe Mode?

  • No specific keyboard shortcut exists, but you can use the Start menu, System Configuration (msconfig), or the Advanced Startup options to exit Safe Mode.

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Steve Ballmer
Steve Ballmer
With over 7 years of experience in the IT industry, I have experience in IT support, helpdesk, sysadmin, network admin, and cloud computing. Certified in Microsoft Technologies (MCTS and MCSA) and also Cisco Certified Professional in Routing and Switching.

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