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How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 10: Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Boot Issues

Windows 10 Safe Mode is a special diagnostic mode that starts your computer with only essential files and drivers. It helps troubleshoot problems like system crashes or software conflicts. Sometimes, however, your PC might get stuck in Safe Mode, and you’ll want to exit it to use your computer normally.

Exiting Safe Mode in Windows 10 is usually simple but requires following the right steps carefully. This guide will walk you through easy-to-understand methods to get your PC back to regular operation.

Whether you entered Safe Mode intentionally or accidentally, these instructions will help you safely exit without causing further issues.

Let’s start by checking a few quick things before diving into the solutions.

Quick Note: What to Check Before You Exit Safe Mode

  • Why are you in Safe Mode? If you entered it intentionally to fix a problem, make sure the issue is resolved before exiting.
  • Backup your data. It’s always wise to save important files before making system changes.
  • Note any error messages. These can help if you need to troubleshoot further.
  • Ensure power stability. Don’t turn off your PC abruptly during these steps.

Step 1: Use System Configuration to Exit Safe Mode

This is the most common and straightforward method to exit Safe Mode.

  1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard 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. Under “Boot options,” find and uncheck the box that says Safe boot.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. You will be prompted to restart your PC. Click Restart to reboot your computer normally.

Why this works: The System Configuration tool controls boot settings, and unchecking Safe boot tells Windows to start normally next time.

Step 2: Restart Your Computer Normally

If your PC still boots into Safe Mode after Step 1, try a simple restart.

  1. Click the Start menu.
  2. Select the Power button.
  3. Choose Restart.

Sometimes, Windows will exit Safe Mode automatically after a fresh reboot.

Step 3: Use Command Prompt to Disable Safe Mode

If System Configuration does not work, you can use a command to disable Safe Mode manually.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes.
  3. Type the following command and press Enter:
bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

This command removes the Safe Mode boot option.

  1. Close the Command Prompt window.
  2. Restart your computer normally.

Alternative Method: Using the Shift + Restart Option

If the above steps don’t work, try this method to restart your PC with advanced options.

  1. Click on the Start menu.
  2. Click the Power button.
  3. Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard and click Restart.
  4. Your PC will reboot to the Advanced Startup Options menu.
  5. Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.
  6. Click Restart.
  7. When the Startup Settings menu appears, press 4 or F4 to start normally.

This method helps reset the startup environment and exit Safe Mode.

FAQs

Why does my PC keep booting into Safe Mode?

Your PC might be set to boot in Safe Mode due to a previous troubleshooting step or a system error. Incorrect boot configuration or persistent system problems can cause this.

Can I exit Safe Mode without restarting?

No. Safe Mode only runs during system startup. You need to restart your PC to exit Safe Mode.

Will exiting Safe Mode delete my files?

No. Exiting Safe Mode will not affect your personal files or data.

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

You may need to boot from a Windows installation media or recovery drive to fix boot problems.

Is Safe Mode the same as Clean Boot?

No. Safe Mode loads minimal drivers, while Clean Boot disables startup programs but keeps essential drivers running.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and your PC still boots into Safe Mode, consider these options:

  • Use the Windows Recovery Environment to perform a system restore or startup repair.
  • Access the Advanced Startup Options from a bootable USB or DVD.
  • Contact Microsoft Support or visit their official troubleshooting page for guidance: Microsoft Windows Support.
  • Seek professional help if hardware issues might be causing boot problems.

Conclusion

Exiting Safe Mode in Windows 10 is usually easy once you know the right steps. Starting with the System Configuration tool is the best approach, followed by simple restarts or using Command Prompt commands if needed.

Always backup your data before making system changes, and check that the problem you were fixing in Safe Mode is resolved before returning to normal mode.

If problems persist, advanced recovery tools or professional help may be necessary. With patience and careful steps, you can get your Windows 10 PC back to regular operation smoothly.

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