ravir RA

Getting into safe mode on Windows 11 straight from boot

PC freezes shortly after reaching the desktop so I can't use the restart-with-shift trick in time. F8 doesn't seem to do anything anymore. Is there a key or method that works at power on?
start windows safe
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1 Answer

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neha_helpdesk Nov 04, 2026
ravir
Turn it on, and as soon as you see the Windows logo or spinning dots, hold the power button until it shuts off. Do that three times in a row and the fourth boot goes to Automatic Repair. Pick Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart, then press 4 for safe mode. Also, the shift plus restart trick works from the lock screen too, before the desktop loads, so you may not need to race the freeze at all.
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