Exiting Safe Mode in Windows 11 can be a simple process if you follow the right steps. Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode in Windows that loads only the essential files and drivers. To exit Safe Mode, you typically need to restart your computer normally. If your computer restarts back into Safe Mode, you’ll have to adjust your boot settings using the System Configuration tool or Command Prompt to ensure it boots back into Normal Mode.
How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 11
Exiting Safe Mode in Windows 11 involves restarting your computer and ensuring it doesn’t boot back into Safe Mode. Here’s how you can accomplish that.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
Restart your PC by clicking the Start menu and selecting "Restart."
Restarting is the simplest way to try exiting Safe Mode. If everything is set correctly, your computer should boot into Normal Mode. However, sometimes settings can cause it to restart back into Safe Mode.
Step 2: Use System Configuration
Press Windows + R, type "msconfig," and hit Enter to open the System Configuration tool.
The System Configuration tool is your gateway to fixing boot settings. Once opened, you’ll see options that dictate how your computer boots up, including Safe Mode settings.
Step 3: Disable Safe Boot
In the System Configuration tool, navigate to the "Boot" tab and uncheck "Safe boot."
Unchecking the "Safe boot" option ensures that Windows will start up normally next time. Apply the changes and close the window.
Step 4: Confirm Your Changes
After making changes, you’ll be prompted to restart your computer. Choose "Restart."
This confirmation ensures that the changes take effect immediately. Once the computer restarts, it should boot into Normal Mode.
Step 5: Verify Normal Boot
Check if Windows boots normally and all your programs are loading as expected.
Ensuring that your computer starts in Normal Mode confirms that you’ve successfully exited Safe Mode. If not, you might need to revisit the settings.
Once you complete these steps, Windows 11 should start in Normal Mode, allowing you to use all your apps and features as usual.
Tips for Exiting Safe Mode in Windows 11
- If your computer restarts into Safe Mode repeatedly, double-check the System Configuration settings.
- Use the System Configuration tool carefully—misconfiguring settings can cause boot issues.
- If you’re unsure about using Command Prompt, stick with System Configuration for safe adjustments.
- Keep a recovery drive handy in case you need to troubleshoot further boot issues.
- Familiarize yourself with Safe Mode settings in case you need to use them again for troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Safe Mode in Windows 11?
Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode that loads only essential files and drivers, helping troubleshoot issues.
Why does my computer keep booting into Safe Mode?
Your computer might have "Safe boot" checked in System Configuration. Uncheck it to boot normally.
Can I exit Safe Mode using Command Prompt?
Yes, you can use Command Prompt with the command "bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot" to exit Safe Mode.
Is Safe Mode harmful to my computer?
No, Safe Mode is not harmful. It’s a mode designed for troubleshooting and diagnosing system issues.
Can I update Windows in Safe Mode?
You can sometimes update drivers in Safe Mode, but full Windows updates are best done in Normal Mode.
Summary
- Restart your computer.
- Use System Configuration.
- Disable Safe boot.
- Confirm your changes.
- Verify normal boot.
Conclusion
Exiting Safe Mode in Windows 11 should be straightforward if you follow the outlined steps. It’s crucial to understand what Safe Mode does—it’s like putting your computer on a digital treadmill, making it work with only the essentials. This is great for troubleshooting but not ideal for everyday use. If you find yourself stuck in Safe Mode, remember the steps you learned here today.
Restarting your computer can sometimes be the magic bullet needed to get things running smoothly again. But if it doesn’t work, knowing how to use the System Configuration tool will be invaluable. You might even find that using Command Prompt is your go-to solution after becoming more familiar with it.
If you keep having issues, consider exploring more advanced troubleshooting steps or seeking professional help. Windows 11 is full of tools designed to help users, and understanding them can make your experience much smoother. For now, take a deep breath, follow these steps, and you should be back in Normal Mode in no time.
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
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