Safe Mode is one of the many tools in Windows 8 that’s used to bypass logging in to your normal Windows Desktop. Since Safe Mode in Windows only let you have access to basic files and system’s drivers, its used mainly to troubleshoot and repair Windows.
For example, if your system is infected with a nasty virus that automatically launches and prevents you from doing anything while you’re singed in, you can you Safe Mode to sign in with just the bare minimal of system files and drivers . This will prevent the virus and other harmful files from starting up. You can than use this opportunity to repair and get rid of the virus.
Now Windows 8 comes with Safe Mode option, but Microsoft made it very difficult to access. In previous version of Windows, one could only press the F8 key on the keyboard while Windows is booting to access Safe Mode. In Windows 8, you must not only press Shift + F8 Keys, but also navigate through series of settings in order to access it.
This brief tutorial is going to show you how to enable Safe Mode in Windows 8 if you wish to boot into it.
To get started, power on your Windows 8 machine, then hold down the Shift key while pressing the F8 key on your keyboard.
If you’re successful, you’ll see the screen below. If don’t see this screen, restart try again Keep doing it until you see the below screen.
Next, choose ‘Troubleshoot’. This option is also used to refresh or reset your PC.
Then select ‘Advanced Options’ to continue.
Next, select ‘Startup Settings’
Finally, select ‘Restart’. As you can see, it’s not easy as pressing F8 key anymore. But this is the way to access the Safe Mode option in Windows 8.
After Windows restarts, you’ll have the option to boot into Safe Mode.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to boot into Safe Mode in Windows 8?
To boot into Safe Mode in Windows 8, power on your machine, hold down the Shift key while pressing the F8 key on your keyboard. Follow the on-screen prompts to navigate to Safe Mode.
What is the purpose of Safe Mode in Windows 8?
Safe Mode in Windows 8 is used to troubleshoot and repair issues by allowing access to basic files and system drivers. It is helpful in situations such as virus infections that prevent normal system operation.
How does Safe Mode help in removing viruses in Windows 8?
Safe Mode in Windows 8 prevents viruses from launching by starting up with minimal system files and drivers. This provides an opportunity to repair and remove viruses without interference.
Why is accessing Safe Mode different in Windows 8 compared to earlier versions?
In Windows 8, accessing Safe Mode requires pressing Shift + F8 keys and navigating through settings, unlike previous versions where only the F8 key was needed. Microsoft made it more complex to access Safe Mode in Windows 8.
Can Safe Mode in Windows 8 be used to reset or refresh the PC?
Yes, Safe Mode in Windows 8 can be used to reset or refresh the PC. By accessing Safe Mode and selecting 'Troubleshoot' > 'Advanced Options', you can choose to refresh or reset your PC.
What are the benefits of using Safe Mode for troubleshooting in Windows 8?
Using Safe Mode in Windows 8 for troubleshooting allows users to isolate issues by starting the system with minimal resources. This helps in identifying and resolving software or driver-related problems.
Is it necessary to access Safe Mode in Windows 8 for regular system operation?
Accessing Safe Mode in Windows 8 is typically not necessary for regular system operation. It is mainly used for troubleshooting and repair purposes when encountering issues that prevent normal startup.
Are there alternative methods to access Safe Mode in Windows 8?
While the Shift + F8 key method is the primary way to access Safe Mode in Windows 8, there are alternative methods such as using the System Configuration tool or booting from a Windows installation media.