How to Get Out of Safe Mode in Windows 11

Safe Mode in Windows 11 is a useful troubleshooting feature that helps users diagnose and fix problems with their computers. It loads a basic version of Windows with only the essential drivers and services, allowing users to resolve software conflicts, remove malware, or troubleshoot startup issues. However, once your problem is resolved, you may wonder how to get out of Safe Mode and return to normal Windows.

If you’re stuck in Safe Mode on your Windows 11 PC and can’t figure out how to exit it, don’t worry. In this guide, you will find simple, step-by-step instructions that anyone can follow. Whether you entered Safe Mode through the Settings app, System Configuration (msconfig), or Advanced Startup Options, this article covers all methods to exit Safe Mode safely and effectively.

What Is Safe Mode in Windows 11?

Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode in Windows that starts the system with a minimal set of drivers and background services. It disables third-party programs and non-essential system functions so that users can troubleshoot issues like system crashes, driver conflicts, or malware infections.

There are two types of Safe Mode:

• Safe Mode – This version starts Windows with only essential drivers and no internet connection.
• Safe Mode with Networking – This version includes network drivers, allowing internet access.

Safe Mode is a helpful tool, but it’s not intended for everyday use. Once you’ve completed your troubleshooting tasks, it’s important to return to normal mode to regain access to all features of your system.

Common Reasons Why You Might Be Stuck in Safe Mode

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand why you might be stuck in Safe Mode:

• You selected the “Safe Boot” option in System Configuration (msconfig) and forgot to uncheck it.
• You used Shift + Restart to enter Safe Mode and did not exit properly.
• There is a startup issue or system misconfiguration keeping you in Safe Mode.
• The computer automatically enters Safe Mode due to system errors or driver failures.

How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 11 – Methods That Work

There are several ways to exit Safe Mode in Windows 11. Below are all the effective methods, explained step by step.

Method 1: Restart Your PC Normally

If you entered Safe Mode using a temporary method (such as Shift + Restart), a simple restart may return you to normal mode.

1. Click on the Start menu or press the Windows key.
2. Select the Power icon.
3. Click on Restart.

In many cases, this is all you need to do to exit Safe Mode. If your computer boots normally, you are out of Safe Mode. If it still loads in Safe Mode, try the next method.

Method 2: Use System Configuration (msconfig) to Disable Safe Boot

If your computer automatically boots into Safe Mode every time, it’s likely because Safe Boot is enabled in System Configuration. Here’s how to disable it:

1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type msconfig and press Enter.
3. The System Configuration window will open.
4. Click on the Boot tab.
5. Under Boot options, look for a checkbox labeled Safe boot.
6. Uncheck the Safe boot checkbox.
7. Click Apply and then OK.
8. When prompted, click Restart.

Your computer will now restart and boot into normal Windows 11 mode.

Method 3: Use Command Prompt to Remove Safe Boot Settings

If you’re comfortable using Command Prompt, this method provides a quick way to disable Safe Boot:

1. Press Windows + S to open the search bar and type cmd.
2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command:

bcdedit /deletevalue {current} safeboot

4. Press Enter.
5. Restart your computer.

After restarting, your system should boot into normal mode.

Method 4: Disable Safe Boot Using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

If your PC is stuck in Safe Mode and you can’t access the desktop, you can use the Windows Recovery Environment:

1. Turn off your PC completely.
2. Press the power button to turn it on.
3. As soon as you see the Windows logo, press and hold the power button until the PC shuts down again.
4. Repeat this process 2 or 3 times until the system boots into the Windows Recovery Environment.
5. Select Advanced options.
6. Choose Startup Settings.
7. Click Restart.
8. After your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options. Press 5 or F5 for “Enable Safe Mode with Networking” or press Enter to boot normally.

If your system was stuck in a Safe Boot loop, this should allow you to break out of it.

Method 5: Use the Settings App to Reboot into Normal Mode

If you entered Safe Mode through Windows Settings, you can use the same area to restart into normal mode:

1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
2. Go to System.
3. Scroll down and click on Recovery.
4. Under Recovery options, click Restart now next to Advanced startup.
5. Your PC will restart into the Windows Recovery Environment.
6. Select Troubleshoot.
7. Choose Advanced options.
8. Click Startup Settings.
9. Click Restart.
10. Press Enter to boot into normal mode.

Method 6: Use Shift + Restart to Exit Safe Mode

You can also use a keyboard shortcut to exit Safe Mode:

1. Press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard.
2. While holding Shift, click the Start menu and select the Power icon.
3. Click Restart while still holding the Shift key.
4. Your computer will reboot into the Advanced Startup menu.
5. Select Troubleshoot.
6. Click Advanced options.
7. Choose Startup Settings.
8. Click Restart.
9. On the next screen, press Enter to start Windows normally.

What to Do If You Still Can’t Exit Safe Mode

If none of the above methods work and you’re still stuck in Safe Mode, try these advanced troubleshooting tips:

• Run System File Checker
  Use the sfc /scannow command in Command Prompt to check for corrupted system files.
• Run Check Disk
  Use the chkdsk /f /r command to scan for and fix disk-related errors.
• Perform a System Restore
  Use a restore point to return your system to a previous state before the Safe Mode issue began.
• Reset Windows 11
  As a last resort, you can perform a system reset to reinstall Windows while keeping your files.

How to Know You’ve Successfully Exited Safe Mode

Once you’ve followed one of the above methods and restarted your PC, check the following to ensure you’re back in normal mode:

• Your desktop appears with your usual wallpaper and icons.
• You have internet access.
• You can use all applications normally.
• The words “Safe Mode” no longer appear in the corners of the screen.

Tips to Avoid Getting Stuck in Safe Mode Again

• Always uncheck “Safe Boot” in msconfig after you’ve finished troubleshooting.
• Avoid using multiple tools to force Safe Mode without knowing how to reverse it.
• Create a restore point before making major system changes.
• Keep your Windows and drivers updated to reduce errors that may lead to Safe Mode.

Conclusion

Safe Mode in Windows 11 is a powerful tool for diagnosing and fixing problems, but it’s important to know how to exit it properly once your task is complete. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, the step-by-step methods provided in this guide will help you return to normal mode quickly and safely.

You can use the Restart option, modify the System Configuration settings, enter command-line instructions, or use Windows Recovery Environment based on your comfort level. Remember to follow the instructions carefully to avoid repeating Safe Mode loops in the future.

By understanding how Safe Mode works and how to exit it, you’ll have greater control over your Windows 11 system and be better prepared to troubleshoot any future issues.