How to Access Windows Safe Mode

Sometimes it is necessary to access Safe Mode on your Windows XP desktop or laptop. Here are the simple instructions for gaining access to Windows Safe Mode.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. First, save any work and click "Start" in the lower left hand corner. You will then click "Shutdown" at the bottom of the window.

2. The Windows Shutdown window will pop up. You will click the down arrow, and select "Restart".

3. Finally, your screen should go dark. At that moment, begin tapping the F8 key. This should bring up a menu. Highlight one of the Safe Mode options by using the arrow keys. The Options will be:
   
   Safe Mode
   Safe With Networking
   Safe Mode With Command Prompt
   
   Once you have highlighted your desired option, then hit ENTER. Your computer should now be starting into your selected Safe Mode option.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember, if you are tapping the F8 key, but Windows XP still starts up, then you may not have begun tapping the F8 key soon enough. You should start tapping the F8 key as soon as the computer begins to restart.