How to Start Windows XP in Safe Mode
Windows XP Safe Mode can help you diagnose and solve many serious problems, especially when starting normally isn’t possible. Here’s how to start up in Safe Mode. Just before the Windows XP splash screen, shown above, appears, press the F8 key to enter the Windows Advanced Options Menu. Here, you’re presented with three variations of Safe Mode you can enter:
Safe Mode: This is the default option and is usually the best choice. This will load only the absolute minimum processes necessary to start Windows. Safe Mode with Networking: This option loads the same processes as Safe Mode, but also includes those that allow the networking functions in Windows to work. This is valuable if you may need to access the internet or your local network while troubleshooting. Safe Mode with Command Prompt: This flavor of Safe Mode also loads a minimum set of processes but will allow access to Command Prompt. This is a valuable option if more advanced troubleshooting is necessary. It’s a little different, though, so check out the Windows XP Safe Mode with Command Prompt instructions for more information.
Using the arrow keys on your keyboard, highlight either the Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter. Using your arrow keys, highlight the correct operating system, and press Enter. On the PC displayed above, both our personal account, Tim, and the built-in administrator account, Administrator, have administrator privileges, so either one could be used. Make any changes you need to make and then restart the computer. Assuming there are no remaining issues preventing it, the computer should boot to Windows XP normally after a restart.
