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How to Fix Windows 11 PC Automatically Starting in Safe Mode: Step-by-Step Solutions

Sometimes, your Windows 11 PC may start automatically in Safe Mode without you intending it to. This can be confusing and might limit your ability to use your computer normally. Safe Mode is a troubleshooting environment that helps fix various issues, but it’s not meant for everyday use.

This article will guide you through simple and clear steps to fix the problem of Windows 11 booting directly into Safe Mode. By following these instructions, you will be able to get your PC back to normal operation.

Each step is explained in detail, so even if you are not very familiar with computers, you can follow along easily. Let’s begin with some quick checks before moving to the solutions.

Remember, patience is key. Some steps may seem technical but are necessary to ensure your PC works properly again.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Check for stuck keys: Sometimes, holding the F8 or Shift key during startup can force Safe Mode. Make sure no key is stuck on your keyboard.
  • Disconnect external devices: Unplug USB drives, printers, or other devices that might interfere with startup.
  • Save your work: If you are able to access Safe Mode, save any important files before proceeding.
  • Backup your data: If possible, back up important data to avoid loss during troubleshooting.

Step 1: Disable Safe Mode Boot Using System Configuration

The most common reason for Windows 11 to always start in Safe Mode is that the system configuration is set to boot this way. You can change this setting easily.

  1. Press Windows + R keys together to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type msconfig and press Enter. This opens the System Configuration window.
  3. Click on the Boot tab at the top.
  4. Look for the Boot options section. If the box next to Safe boot is checked, uncheck it.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. You will be prompted to restart your computer. Click Restart to apply changes.

Why this step is important: The System Configuration tool controls how your PC starts. If Safe boot is enabled here, Windows will always start in Safe Mode until this option is changed.

Step 2: Use Command Prompt to Clear Safe Mode Boot Option

If the System Configuration method doesn’t work or you cannot access the tool, you can clear the Safe Mode boot option using Command Prompt.

  1. Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot
  1. Close the Command Prompt and restart your PC.

Why this step is important: The bcdedit command edits boot configuration data. Removing the safeboot option forces Windows to start normally.

Step 3: Check for Pending Updates or Driver Issues

Sometimes, Windows boots into Safe Mode automatically if there is a system problem, such as incomplete updates or driver conflicts.

  • Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  • Go to Windows Update and click Check for updates.
  • Install any available updates and restart your PC.
  • If the problem persists, try updating device drivers via Device Manager:
  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark.
  3. Right-click on these devices and select Update driver.

Why this step is important: Updates and drivers keep your system stable. Fixing these can stop Windows from booting into Safe Mode due to errors.

Step 4: Use the Advanced Startup Options to Exit Safe Mode

If your PC still boots into Safe Mode, try using the Advanced Startup Options menu to fix the boot settings.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > Recovery.
  3. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
  4. After your PC restarts, click Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
  5. When the Startup Settings screen appears, press 4 or F4 to start Windows normally.

Why this step is important: The Advanced Startup Options provide tools to fix startup problems and reset boot preferences.

Alternative Method: Use System Restore

If the above steps don’t work, performing a System Restore can return your system to a previous state before the problem started.

  1. Open the Start menu and type rstrui, then press Enter.
  2. Follow the System Restore wizard to select a restore point dated before the Safe Mode problem began.
  3. Complete the restore process and restart your PC.

Note: System Restore will undo recent changes but will not affect your personal files.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my Windows 11 PC keep booting in Safe Mode?

This usually happens if Safe Mode is enabled in system settings or if Windows detects a problem and tries to fix it automatically.

Can I use Safe Mode permanently?

Safe Mode is designed for troubleshooting only and limits many features. It’s best to fix the issue and return to normal mode.

What if I can’t access System Configuration or Command Prompt?

You can try using the Advanced Startup Options or boot from a Windows installation media to repair your system.

Will disabling Safe Mode delete my files?

No, these steps only change how Windows starts and do not delete personal data.

How do I prevent Safe Mode from starting automatically in the future?

Make sure you don’t enable Safe Mode in System Configuration unintentionally and keep your Windows updates and drivers up to date.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the problem, you may need to consider more advanced options:

  • Reset your PC: Go to Settings > System > Recovery and choose Reset this PC. You can keep your files or remove everything.
  • Use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE): Boot from a Windows 11 installation USB and select Repair options.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for professional help.

Conclusion

Windows 11 automatically starting in Safe Mode can be frustrating, but it is usually easy to fix. Start by checking the System Configuration settings, then use Command Prompt if needed. Keep your system updated and check for driver issues to prevent future problems.

If these basic steps do not work, use Advanced Startup Options or perform a System Restore. As a last resort, resetting your PC or seeking official support can help restore normal operation.

Following these simple instructions carefully will help you get your Windows 11 PC back to normal quickly and safely.

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