Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services. Safe Mode with Networking keeps basic network support available so you can download a driver, check instructions, run a web-based tool, or reach a local network resource while troubleshooting.
This guide applies to Windows 10 and Windows 11, whether Windows can still reach the desktop or is stuck failing during startup.
Does This Affect You?
Use Safe Mode with Networking when normal Windows is unstable but you still need internet or local network access during the repair. It is helpful for removing problem software, testing startup conflicts, downloading drivers, or checking support pages.
Start from a Working Windows Desktop
Use this method if you can still sign in normally and want the next restart to load Safe Mode with Networking.
- Open Start and click the power icon.
- Hold Shift while clicking Restart. Keep holding it until the recovery screen appears.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
- Click Restart.
- When the numbered startup menu appears, press 5 or F5 for Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
- Windows starts with Safe Mode labels in the corners and networking enabled.
Start When Windows Will Not Boot
Use this when Windows crashes or loops before you can reach the desktop.
- Turn the PC on. As soon as Windows begins loading, hold the power button for about 10 seconds to turn it off.
- Repeat the interrupted startup two more times.
- After the third interruption, Windows should open Automatic Repair or the recovery screen.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
- Press 5 or F5 for Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Safe Mode with Networking Notes
Exit by Restarting Normally
Safe Mode is temporary when launched from Startup Settings. Restart from the Start menu and Windows should boot normally again.
If Safe Mode Keeps Returning
Open Run with Windows key + R, type msconfig, and press Enter. On the Boot tab, make sure Safe boot is unchecked, then restart.
Not Every App Will Work
Safe Mode with Networking still disables most nonessential drivers, services, VPN clients, startup tools, and security-suite components. It is for troubleshooting, not everyday use.
Broken Wi-Fi Drivers May Still Be Broken
If the issue is the Wi-Fi driver itself, Safe Mode with Networking may not fix connectivity. Use Ethernet if possible, or download the needed file on another device and transfer it with USB.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Start your PC in Safe Mode in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Advanced startup options
- Microsoft Learn: Safe Mode troubleshooting overview