How to Start MS Word in Safe Mode

With the Microsoft Word application, you can create a variety of useful documents, including manuals, user guides, books, posters, flyers and address labels. If you are experiencing technical difficulties while using Word, there are many built-in features you can use to help you to troubleshoot the problem. If your computer is also experiencing a virus that you are having trouble getting rid of, you should always start Word in Safe Mode to avoid damaging the application.

Instructions

Use Command Prompt

1. Click on the "Start" button from your desktop and then click on the "Run" button.

2. Click on the "Browse" button and then click on the "Winword.exe" option from the Browse dialog box.

3. Click on the "Open" button and then the path for opening Microsoft Word will appear in the "Open" field.

4. Click at the end of the text for the path. Press the "spacebar" key to add a space and then enter "/safe" into the text box.

5. Click on the "OK" button and Word will then start in Safe Mode.

Use CTRL Key

1. Click on the "Start" button from your desktop and then move your mouse over the "All Programs" option.

2. Press the "CTRL" key on your keyboard and then click on the "Microsoft Office Word" option at the same time.

3. Continue to hold down the "CTRL" key while Microsoft Word starts.

4. Click on the "Yes" button when you receive the message asking if you want to start Word in Safe Mode.

References

• Microsoft Support: Description of Office Safe Mode for Word 2003 and Word 2002
• CNET: Microsoft Advises Safe Mode for Word