How to Start Windows XP in Safe Mode

Computer problems can make you feel like you're stuck in a web.

Safe Mode is an alternative restart function for Windows operating systems, including XP, that makes it easier to diagnose and troubleshoot problems. It is very useful to start a PC in Safe Mode when the system is having difficulty starting normally. When your computer is operating in Safe Mode, only the processes in the operating system files needed to run Windows XP are loaded. This allows you to remove files and folders from your computer that otherwise cannot be deleted.

Instructions

1. Click "Start" and "Shut Down."

2. Click the "Restart" option and click "OK."

3. Press and hold the "F8" key on your keyboard while the computer boots up. If you see the Windows starting page, you'll need to restart the computer and try this again. You should see the Advanced Boot Options menu.

4. Use your keyboard's arrow keys to navigate to the option you want and press "Enter."

Tips & Warnings

• Some Windows XP is not set to, and does not show the "Windows Advanced Options Menu" on the screen when it boots. If this describes your system, you know how to go around this after reading the article.

References

• Microsoft Windows XP: To Start the Computer in Safe Mode