3 Ways to Boot into Safe Mode on Mac OS X or Windows
Introduction:
Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode for your computer that allows you to troubleshoot issues by running a minimal set of features and drivers. This helps to isolate software problems and determine the cause of your system’s instability. Here, we discuss three methods to boot into Safe Mode on both MacOS X and Windows operating systems.
1. Mac OS X – Using Shift Key:
One of the easiest ways to boot your Mac into Safe Mode is by using the Shift key.
Steps:
a. Turn off your Mac.
b. Press and hold the Shift key.
c. Turn on your Mac while holding the Shift key until you see the Apple logo.
d. Release the Shift key when you see the login window.
Your Mac will now be in Safe Mode, and you can access limited features for troubleshooting purposes.
2. Windows – Using System Configuration Tool (msconfig):
The System Configuration tool, also known as msconfig, allows you to enable Safe Mode in Windows easily.
Steps:
a. Press Windows key + R to open Run dialog box.
b. Type ‘msconfig’ and press Enter.
c. In the System Configuration window, click on ‘Boot’ tab.
d. Check the ‘Safe boot’ box and select your preferred options (Minimal, Alternate shell, Active Directory repair or Network).
e. Click ‘Apply’ followed by ‘OK’.
f. Restart your computer, and it will boot into Safe Mode.
3. Windows – Using Advanced Startup Options:
If you are unable to access Windows normally, you can still boot into Safe Mode using Advanced Startup Options.
Steps:
a. Turn off your computer.
b. Turn it back on while repeatedly pressing F8 (or Shift + F8) when the manufacturer’s logo appears.
c. If done correctly, you’ll be directed to the Advanced Boot Options menu.
d. Use the arrow keys to navigate and highlight ‘Safe Mode’ or ‘Safe Mode with Networking’ if you need internet access for troubleshooting.
e. Press Enter to boot into Safe Mode.
Conclusion:
Knowing different methods of booting into Safe Mode can be extremely helpful during times of system instability or malfunction. The techniques mentioned above provide you with quick and easy ways to access Safe Mode on both Mac OS X and Windows operating systems, ultimately allowing you to better diagnose your computer’s issues.