Diagnostic (safe) mode is required to troubleshoot various problems and system failures on a PC and laptop. If you cannot start Windows according to the standard scenario, you can try to enter the diagnostic mode and try to find out what's wrong. It can also be useful if you want to reinstall a broken OS, and before that copy the information you need from your hard drive. This article describes such a Windows 7 feature as a safe or diagnostic mode, and provides instructions on how to exit the safe mode of starting a computer.
general information
The operating system running in safe mode uses only the minimum set of services and drivers necessary for operation.
The first thing that may catch your eye is a very small screen resolution due to the lack of drivers for the video card.
Such a denial of services allows you to enter the OS after incorrect installation of drivers or software, as well as after disabling any critical Windows service.
Thus, you protect yourself from misconfigured programs that make it impossible to start the system. Here, the computer user has access to the command line and can try to resolve the difficulties by reconfiguring or removing certain software. If this fails, the diagnostic mode allows you to transfer all the necessary information to external media before reinstalling the system on your laptop.
Starting Windows Diagnostic Mode
In order to enter safe mode, you need to restart your personal computer.
After these simple steps, you will be taken to the system diagnostics mode. On the screen, you will be able to see the corresponding notifications. 
When you need to log in in normal mode, just shut down your computer and reboot.
Problems starting Windows
If your system boots only in safe mode on a laptop or PC, it is possible that your settings have changed as a result of failures. To reconfigure the launch, follow the instructions provided.
Operating system Windows for personal computers today is the undisputed leader in the world market. One of the main reasons for this popularity of this OS is often called the convenience of working with it for ordinary users.
However, in addition, good ones are also built into the Windows system. administrative diagnostic capabilities, as well as tools that allow you to carry out elementary actions to restore your computer. About one of these "secret rooms" in the Windows system and will be discussed further.
Windows Safe Mode
When working with computer programs, various emergency situations may arise. They can be called like instability of the system itself, and errors in a specific application. In addition, sometimes, due to certain specifics of some computer software, its installation and removal is possible only in a strictly regulated environment. This may be due, for example, to the deep integration of the application with the system.
To solve many problems and troubleshoot the system, advanced users use Windows Safe Mode.
First, let's define what Safe Mode is.
Windows Safe Mode- this is a way to start the operating system and the conditions for subsequent work in it, which autoloads only the drivers, services and applications necessary for the functioning of the computer
In simple words Safe mode- is loading a computer with a minimum set of programs.
Starting the system in safe mode can be useful in case of unstable operation of the system in normal mode for various reasons. Moreover, often if computer does not turn on in the usual way, that is, it is likely that in safe mode it will still be possible to start it. In addition, this version of the OS is great for removing some viruses and traces of their existence from a computer.
But, for the same reasons that working in safe mode can be very useful, this way of turning on the computer is not suitable for everyday use. The output of Windows functionality is too truncated. Although, of course, in an emergency, an exception can be made for undemanding operations.
Starting Windows in Safe Mode
Now it would be useful to know how to enter safe mode windows.
The options and ways to get into safe mode may differ depending on the version of your operating system. Consider the main ways to enter Windows Safe Mode.
Ⅰ Enter Safe Mode using hotkeys
This method is only suitable for older versions of the Windows system (in the case of Windows 8 / 8.1 and Windows 10, the method will only work if the system is installed on Legacy BIOS, and not on the new UEFI BIOS). You can use them if you need. get into Safe Mode in Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, or Windows 8/8.1 and Windows 10 with Legacy BIOS.
We turn off the computer. Press the power button and then tap the key several times F8(or F4, less often - other options, depending on the manufacturer of the motherboard / laptop) on the keyboard. In the case of Windows 8 / 8.1 and Windows 10 on the UEFI BIOS, you can try to use the key F8 (F10, F4 or others), but we will talk about this below.
We will see a menu with additional download options
By pressing the up / down arrow buttons on the keyboard, we get to the item Safe mode and press the key Enter
Ⅱ Enter Safe Mode via System Configuration
This option is suitable for entering Safe Mode on all existing Windows operating systems.
Run the utility on the computer Run going to Start - All programs - Standard(in Windows 10 utility Run is in the directory Service), or by pressing the keys on the keyboard Start(on some keyboards it is marked as Win) and R. In the window that opens, enter the command
msconfig
and press the key Enter.
On Windows XP, in a new window, go to the BOOT.INI tab and in the field Download Options put a tick in front of the / SAFEBOOT item. We press the OK button.
On new versions of the operating system, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1 and Windows 10 System Configurations will look a little different
Now we restart the computer. The system will start in Safe Mode.
Just keep in mind that after that, with each reboot, Windows will start in safe mode. To avoid this, you need to go back to System settings and uncheck the box Safe mode
Ⅲ Enter Safe Mode via recovery options
This path is suitable for start in safe mode Windows 8/8.1 and Windows 10.
So, first we need to enable system recovery mode. You can do this both from the Windows settings and from the shutdown menu:
After that, you will see an action selection window, where you will need to go to Troubleshooting
Download Options
And click the Reload button
We are waiting for the computer to restart and we see a window with launch options
F1-F12 F4
Ⅳ Enter Safe Mode from Command Prompt
The following method is suitable for users who are not afraid to use Windows command line. It also works on all versions of the operating system, up to the latest today - Windows 10.
Launching the command line on behalf of the Administrator
In the console that opens, enter the command
And press the key Enter
Next, we reboot the machine, wait for it to turn on and see the window with launch options already familiar to us from the previous method
Here you see the line button mapping. F1-F12 on the keyboard and Windows startup options. To get into Safe Mode, we need to press the key F4
To turn off the appearance Boot options every time you start the system, you need to run the command on the command line as Administrator
Ⅴ Enter Safe Mode from the Windows installation disc
This method can also be implemented on any OS version from Microsoft. But, unlike all those described above, we will need not only an already installed copy of the system, but also Windows installation disk the same version as installed on the PC, or Windows Recovery Disc
We insert the existing disk into the drive of the computer / laptop and boot from it (you can also use a USB drive with a bootable copy of Windows). In the first window, select the language and your region and click Next. In the next window you not click on the Install button, and click on System Restore
In the command line, we execute the command we now know
bcdedit /set (globalsettings) advancedoptions true
And click the Continue button. The system will reboot with the startup mode selected.
To disable this option, on the command line as Administrator, execute
bcdedit /deletevalue (globalsettings)advancedoptions
Ⅵ Enter Safe Mode through an incorrect system shutdown
This method also allows you enter Safe Mode on any version and edition of the Windows operating system but we we do not recommend using it
while you have other options. It can be called unwanted or extreme.
The bottom line is that you need shutdown computer urgently:
- or long press the power button on the case of a PC or laptop;
- or turn off the computer by unplugging the PC power cord or by disconnecting the laptop from the charger, disconnect the battery from it.
The next system startup after such an abnormal shutdown should start from download suggestions computer.
It makes sense to resort to such drastic measures only if, in normal Windows operation, you do not have the opportunity to use one of the methods described above
Working in Windows Safe Mode
We have covered the main ways that can help you. open windows in safe mode. Next, you already need to act depending on the reasons that forced you to start the system in this way.
If you have problems turning on the computer after installing some program or device driver, then you need to remove the problematic software from Windows startup, how to do this is described in detail in the entry:. You may have to completely remove the unstable program from the computer according to the instructions in the entry.
If system crashes are caused by a virus attack, then you need to scan your computer with an antivirus utility and get rid of the malware found.
All stable systems and good luck in mastering the intricacies of Windows
Any PC user may encounter problems with Windows 7. In this case, the malfunction can be so serious that the operating system, in its normal mode, will start to slow down considerably or even refuse to start at all. Fortunately, there is a sure method to fix all this, or at least to diagnose and identify the cause of the problem. Of course, we are talking about Windows 7 Safe Mode, also known as Safe Mode. This article is dedicated to him.
Purpose
Before that, it is worth understanding what, in general, it is and what its purpose is. So, this is a special mechanism for starting the operating system, in which only basic drivers and services are used. Simply put, even if some program causes computer crashes, it simply will not turn on in Windows 7 Safe Mode.
First of all, Safe Mode is used for diagnostics. So, if the computer does not start in normal mode, but works quietly in safe mode, then the cause of the malfunction must be sought in the software, and not in the hardware. Particular attention should be paid to applications and drivers installed recently. By uninstalling these programs one at a time and trying to start Windows normally, you will eventually fix the problem.
Not everyone knows, but Windows 7 Safe Mode is divided into three types, each of which has its own characteristics:
- Ordinary. Basic version with a minimum set of programs and drivers. In most cases, this mode will be enough for you to solve all the problems that have arisen.
- With network support. Almost the same as the previous version, but with the ability to use network connections. In other words, if you want to go online as part of troubleshooting and troubleshooting, then this kind of Safe Mode is perfect for you. The problem is that malware will also be able to connect to the network, which means that there is a chance that they will cause even more harm to your computer.
- With command line support. By enabling this mode, you will see in front of you not the usual desktop, but an interface in which you can only enter special letter commands. This function is useful only in special cases, so do not use it unless necessary.
Before you start Windows 7 Safe Mode, it is important to decide which of its types is right for you at the moment. If in doubt, use the usual one.
Standard startup method
The first method to start Windows 7 Safe Mode on a laptop or PC is good because you can use it even before the OS starts. It consists in the following:
- As soon as the computer turns on, press the F8 key. It is important to do this before the Windows logo appears, otherwise you will have to restart your PC and start over. If you are afraid to miss the right moment, you can press F8 several times in a row. Just do not overdo it, otherwise the command simply will not work.
- If you did everything right, a menu will appear on the screen with the ability to select the type of Safe Mode you need. Highlight the option you are interested in using the arrows on the keyboard and press Enter.
- Wait for the system to load all necessary services. Usually this process takes no more than a minute, but on weak computers it can be delayed.
Please note that the Windows 7 Safe Mode desktop starts at a low resolution. If necessary, you can change this option if it is more convenient for you to work.
Login via settings
This method of enabling Windows 7 Safe Mode is suitable for you, provided that your operating system starts, but slows down or freezes after a while. To use it, do this:
- Wait for the OS to load and press the Win + R key combination.
- Type msconfig in the line that appears and press Enter.
- A menu will open with the system startup settings, in which the General tab will be open by default. Here you need to switch from the "Normal Startup" option to "Diagnostic Startup".
- Now go to the Downloads tab. Here you need to activate safe mode (check the box), and then select one of the options (recommended "Minimum").
After that, you will only have to confirm the changes made and restart the PC. If you did everything right, you will immediately enter Safe Mode. Please note that the next time you restart your computer, it will start in normal mode.
Command line activation
Another way to start Windows 7 Safe Mode on a computer with a running operating system. It is done like this:
- Wait for the OS to load and press Win+R.
- Type cmd and hit enter.
- Now type BCDedit and press Enter again.
- A list of all the possible characteristics of your computer will appear. You need to rewrite (or remember) what is written in the "Identifier" section.
- Next, write "bcdedit / set (ID) safeboot minimal", replacing (ID) with the data from the section of the same name (the ones you overwrote in the previous step).
- Close the window and restart your PC.
Be that as it may, this method is recommended only for advanced users. The fact is that to exit Safe Mode, you will have to go back to the command line and enter "bcdedit /deletevalue (ID) safeboot". Otherwise, the computer will continue to work in Safe Mode.
emergency way
Although quite rare, it happens that none of the above methods can turn on Safe Mode. In such a case, do the following:
- Turn on or restart your computer.
- As soon as the Windows logo appears, press the Reset button on the system unit. If you do not have such a button, you can use the power switch (you need to turn it off and then on).
- These actions will be regarded by the operating system as a critical failure, so Windows will automatically prompt you to boot into Safe Mode.
Possible problems
When you try to start Safe Mode, you may run into some problems. Here are solutions for the most common ones:
- On some laptop models, you will not be able to use the F8 key to launch Safe Mode. In this case, you will need to press the Fn + F8 combination.
- If you have already launched one of the types of safe mode, but you see only a black screen with letters in front of you, try pressing Enter or Space.
- Once on the desktop in Safe Mode, you will find that there is not a single icon on it. To add "My Computer" there, right-click on the table and go to the "Personalization" section. After that, open the "Change Icons" category and select the ones you need. Don't forget to apply the changes.
That, in principle, is all that concerns safe mode in Windows 7. By the way, some of the ways to start it work in later versions of the operating system.
In this article, we will talk about Safe Mode in Windows 7. First of all, we will briefly explain what Safe Mode is and how it works, and then we will look at ways to enter and exit it.
What is Safe Mode in Windows?
In safe mode, Windows loads only the bare essentials (a minimal set of drivers and services). Thus, in safe mode you will only have access to basic Windows programs and functions, which, as a rule, do not need drivers for network devices - this means that you will not have access to the Internet when it comes to standard safe mode. . In addition, the Windows interface in safe mode will not look the way you are used to seeing it. This is because Safe Mode is set to run on the lowest graphics settings at the lowest resolution supported by Windows. In the case of Windows 7, this is 800 by 600 pixels.
During the boot process in safe mode, a black screen appears on the screen showing drivers and services being loaded, and after the download is complete, the Help and Support window automatically opens on the desktop, which explains what safe mode is and how to use it.
Remember that Safe Mode does not load any third-party services and programs that are loaded during normal operating system startup, but only the essential services and features needed to start Windows.
Everything written above makes it clear that safe mode itself is used to identify and fix problems in the operation of the operating system.
How to Boot into Safe Mode in Windows 7
There are several ways that you can boot into safe mode, and the first one is to use the System Configuration tool. To open it, press Win + R on your keyboard, type “msconfig” in the Run dialog, and then press Enter. When the window opens, go to the "Download" tab. There you will find the Download Options section.
Check the box next to the "Safe Mode" option, click "OK", and then select "Restart" or "Exit without restarting" - if you want the computer to restart right now, select the first, and accordingly the second if you want to restart computer later by yourself. The next time you start Windows 7, it will boot into safe mode.
Please note that after this, the operating system will constantly boot in safe mode. To turn it off, go back to System Configuration, disable the Safe Mode option, and click OK. Then restart your computer.
Another way to enter safe mode will be useful in cases where Windows 7 for some reason does not want to boot into normal mode, which is usually associated with some kind of software (driver, etc.). To boot into safe mode this way, hold down the F8 key immediately after turning on the computer. This will bring up a menu with advanced boot options where you can choose to boot into Safe Mode, Safe Mode with Networking, and Safe Mode with Command Prompt. Use the arrow keys to move between menu items and the Enter key to select.
Also note that if you are unable to start your computer normally after installing new software or making some changes to the OS settings, try selecting the Last Know Good Configuration option first. If this does not help, then boot into safe mode and look for the cause of the problem.
What are the rest of the safe mode options for?
The good old safe mode comes in several varieties.
If you may need the Internet in Safe Mode, for example, to download drivers, you must use "Safe Mode with Networking". In this mode, the drivers necessary for the operation of the computer's network card or modem are loaded, which will allow you to open web pages, download files and access computers on the local network.
Experienced Windows users often work in a command prompt window, and "Safe Mode with Command Promt" allows you to run and use this tool in the operating system's safe mode.
Congratulations! Now you know how to boot into safe mode, which can be your savior for various computer problems.
Have a great day!
In Windows 7, there are two ways to get into safe mode:
1) Entering Windows 7 Safe Mode at system startup.
2) Entering Safe Mode from the Windows 7 environment (from a running OS by changing the boot in System Configuration).
Entering Windows 7 Safe Mode at System Startup.
Turn on the computer and while the system is booting, press the F8 key several times, if the welcome window (Windows 7 logo) appears, it means that you did not have time to press the F8 key, in which case you need to wait until the system boots and turn off the computer again and when booting, press again F8 key. When trying to get into safe mode, you need to consider:
- On some keyboards, the function keys F1 - F12 are always disabled by default. To enable them, you must press a special key (usually Fn) and while holding it, press the F8 key.
- If your computer has two or more operating systems, use the arrow keys to select the one you want, and then press the Enter key.
- To use the arrow keys on the numeric keypad, Num Lock must be disabled.
In the window Additional download options choose " Safe mode” and press the key “ Enter».
After a few seconds, the system will boot into safe mode.
Entering Safe Mode from Windows 7.
Press the button " Start"and in the search bar we write msconfig and press the key Enter» 
In the opened window system configuration, go to the tab "" check the box " Safe mode” and choose “ Minimum».
For reference:
Safe Mode: Minimum- Loading the Windows GUI (Windows Explorer) in safe mode, running only the most important system services. Network components are disabled.
Safe Mode: Another Shell- Boot the Windows command line in safe mode with only the most important system services running. Network components and GUI are disabled.
Safe Mode: Restore Active Directory - Booting the Windows GUI in safe mode, starting only the most important system services and the Active Directory directory service.
Safe Mode: Network- Loading the Windows GUI in safe mode, running only the most important system services. Network components included.
Without GUI - The Welcome screen is not displayed while Windows is loading.
Download log - All information regarding the boot process is stored in the %SystemRoot%Ntbtlog.txt file.
Base video- Loading the Windows GUI in minimal VGA mode. This mode loads standard VGA drivers instead of display drivers that match your computer's video hardware.
OS information - Displays the names of loaded drivers during system boot.
Make these boot options permanent - Changes made to system settings are not tracked. Settings can be changed later using System Setup, but only manually. If this option is selected, you will not be able to roll back changes by selecting Normal Startup on the General tab. 
After that, you will be prompted to restart the computer in order to get into Windows 7 safe mode. If you want to boot into safe mode now, press "", if you want to do it later, select " Exit without reboot” and the next time you restart or turn on your computer / laptop, automatically boot into safe mode.
The next time you boot Windows7, the system will boot into Safe Mode.
In order not to boot into safe mode, you need to go back to the system configuration and uncheck the boxes that were previously set.