PC users often encounter a problem when the operating system begins to freeze mercilessly. If you have a lot of utilities and drivers installed, it can be quite difficult to figure out what is causing the crashes. Fortunately, the developers have provided a solution to the problem: you will need to run Windows 7 safe mode.
Safe Mode Features
(safe mode) includes loading basic services and drivers, without which Windows will not start at all. All non-essential services and programs will not be launched, which greatly increases the chance of successfully loading the OS. Also, if you switch to safe mode, you can use simpler methods to identify problems related to the incorrect operation of Windows components and perform system diagnostics. Therefore, another name was assigned to it; it is also called the diagnostic mode.
Booting Windows 7 in safe mode will allow you to determine at what level the problem occurred. If after startup there are no failures, then the reason needs to be looked for in the downloaded files. Run programs one by one to find the culprit.
Entering safe (diagnostic) mode in Windows 7 will help clean your computer from viruses. If the system is heavily infected, the antivirus may not be able to cope with the problem during a normal boot. In safe mode, you can also install an antivirus program if it has not been downloaded.
In particularly critical situations, Windows does not boot in the usual way. Then you can perform a system rollback through safe mode. Select a restore point at which the system functioned without failures. The computer should return to normal operation.
Before starting work
Before you enter Windows 7 Safe Mode, you need to check if USB is supported in the BIOS. If this feature is turned off, you will not be able to use your USB keyboard and mouse, even if the devices work normally without any problems.
Now USB devices will work even before the OS starts.
Login during system startup
Restart your computer. When the BIOS logo appears on the screen, press and hold F8. Sometimes the key may not work. If everything is fine in the BIOS settings, try the combination Ctrl + F8 or Shift + F8.
You need to be in time before the Windows logo appears, otherwise you will have to start the procedure again. If you do everything correctly, a signal will sound and “ Additional boot menu", the opening will take some time. 
Using the navigation keys we can select the appropriate option:
- safe mode- graphical interface with basic programs; - the seven will launch the drivers required to access the Internet;
- with command line support- instead of the usual graphical interface, command line mode will be activated. This download is suitable for IT specialists. Regular users are not recommended to boot Windows this way.
We choose the first or second option, based on the need to access the Internet. But be careful: protection means usually do not work in safe mode and you cannot always enable them manually. So it’s better to opt for the first download method.
A window for downloading files will appear. This will take a few seconds. 
So now our computer is in safe mode. The screen resolution became low, and the screensaver changed to a black background. Help immediately opens, where you can learn about enabling and operating features in diagnostic mode. 
However, there are some disadvantages here. The BIOS logo disappears very quickly, and users simply do not have time to press F8 in time. In addition, on a laptop it is not difficult to immediately go to the additional boot menu. But on a desktop computer it often does not open or will open only once every ten attempts. The exception is when starting after an emergency shutdown.
Therefore, the question arises: what to do in this case, how to enter safe mode in Windows 7. Fortunately, it can be turned on in another way.
Launch from the system
This is an alternative option on how to quickly enable safe mode in Windows 7. The advantage of this method is that it almost always works and there is no need to “catch” the treasured F8.
The PC should now boot into Safe Mode.
We looked at how to start safe mode in Windows 7 without logging out. It is especially important here that the BIOS supports USB. In the first case, safe mode is selected before the system starts. Accordingly, if you are using a USB keyboard, the F8 key simply will not work and the standard startup will begin. But when launched via the command line, the diagnostic mode opens from the Windows environment. If the keyboard and mouse have USB connectors, the user will encounter an unpleasant situation: safe mode is enabled, but the main input devices are not responding. You will have to exit through the emergency shutdown.
How to exit diagnostic mode
As a rule, to exit safe mode, it is enough to reboot the system. This can be done using standard methods.
Via the menu Start 
or via the key combination Alt + F4. 
Windows should return to native mode. But sometimes the reboot stubbornly refuses to start. Then safe or diagnostic mode in Windows 7 can be turned off within the system. Essentially, we will come out of it the same way we entered it.
After rebooting, normal mode will turn on.
Of course, safe mode will not necessarily solve the problem. The computer may slow down due to heavy processor load. If you enable safe mode on Windows 7, the load will be significantly reduced and the system will start working well. But after a normal boot, crashes will appear again. Then you will have to clean the startup. However, this is an indispensable assistant in case of problems or problems starting the system.
Video on the topic
Users often encounter a problem when they cannot boot a computer or laptop running Windows 7 not only in normal mode, but also in safe mode. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons. System and hardware failures often lead to the fact that the operating system cannot boot or spontaneously reboots, or a blue screen of death appears after turning on the PC. What to do if Windows 7 does not enter safe mode, how to solve this problem and restore the functionality of your PC. In this article we will try to solve these problems.
What is safe mode and why is it needed?
Safe mode in Windows OS (Safe Mode) is a special diagnostic mode of operation of the operating system, which is used to identify and eliminate errors in the OS registry. If you run Safe Mode, unnecessary system components will be disabled by default. In other words, when you turn on a computer or laptop with this option, only the most necessary system components of the device and important drivers will be loaded.
If the PC on which Windows 7 is installed encounters any malfunctions after turning it on, you can try starting the device through safe mode with a basic set of services. After the system boots into Safe Mode, the user can perform the same actions as during normal Windows 7 startup.
This download method will help detect the presence of virus, adware, and spyware in the system that interfere with the normal functioning of a desktop computer or laptop.
If Windows 7 only boots into safe mode immediately after turning on the PC, this indicates that there is a problem that is preventing the operating system from starting normally. In this case, the reason, as a rule, lies in recently installed software.
To solve the problem, you can try to restore the system. To do this, go to “ Start» - « Control Panel» - « System Restore».
But what to do if a device with Windows 7 not only does not enter safe mode, but does not want to start even in normal mode. Let's try to understand this issue.
Reasons why Windows 7 cannot boot into Safe Mode
As already noted, most often the need to enter safe mode on any version of Windows OS, including the “seven”, is due to the need to scan and check the PC for viruses and the presence of virus software. Of course, if the computer does not turn on in normal mode.
Despite the fact that Windows 7 currently occupies a leading position among all operating systems presented, it cannot be said that this version of the OS is the standard of absolute quality. Unfortunately, Windows 7 has many of its own bugs and shortcomings, which affect the stability of your device. Especially if you neglect to install licensed software.
If Windows 7 Safe Mode does not turn on, this problem may be caused by:
- the presence of viral, potentially dangerous software (viral advertising, software);
- hardware power failure;
- file system damage;
- technical problems.
As a rule, if Windows 7 does not want to turn on in safe mode, according to experts, this problem lies in the presence of “evil” viruses in the registry due to the installation of applications and software from unverified, dubious sources. Most likely, under the influence of modified spyware, the registry branches in the system files that are responsible for entering safe mode were deleted.
How to boot your PC in safe mode
Everyone knows that you can boot your PC in safe mode by pressing the F8 key immediately after turning on the PC. But pressing this key does not always bring up the safe mode menu, which can be caused by a number of problems.
If Windows 7 does not boot in safe mode, there are several ways to fix this problem:
- reinstalling the OS;
- changing the system configuration;
- using the special AVZ utility.
The most radical method is complete OS reinstallation. The only thing worth noting is that this option is only suitable if you have removable media on hand, a distribution kit with this version of the operating system. That is, the one that was already installed on the PC. This will require " System Restore Point" The most recently saved system restore points will open in a special window when this feature is activated.
It is worth noting that if the system has important files and it is not possible to install the system from the installation disk, this option cannot be called the best solution to the problem.
Sometimes, if turning on the computer is impossible in Safe Mode, you can perform the so-called “knurling” ( system rollback) - a process that is identical to a complete reinstallation of the OS, allowing you to save all previously installed important programs, applications, software. If necessary, you can back up data and important information on your PC.
In the event of a complete system reinstallation, you can restore lost registry data using a utility application, namely System Restore. But you need to remember that using this console is not effective in all cases. To ensure that the OS boot option is restored in Safe Mode, we will need a recovery REG file that is fully compatible with this OS.
The best option that will help if Windows 7 does not want to boot or start in safe mode is AVZ utility, which can be downloaded without any problems from the official web portal. In addition to restoring the functionality of your PC, this program will help eliminate various threats and malware from the system of your laptop or personal computer. To do this, you need to perform the following sequence of actions:
To boot Windows 7 in safe mode, you can also try change OS configuration. At the same time, the main thing is to avoid mistakes in your actions by adhering to the following sequence:
- Go to the menu " Start", click " Execute».
- In field " Open"We enter the msconfig command and press the OK button. After which you can see the window that appears “ system configuration", as well as other active tabs at the top. ", after which the line " Safe mode».
- Check the box " Safe mode", confirm the action by pressing OK.
Now you need to restart your PC and check the functioning of safe mode. To do this, during the reboot process, at the very beginning of the system boot, press ". Now you need to re-enter " system configuration» - «» - « Safe mode" Uncheck the box next to “ Safe mode", click OK.
As you can see, if Windows 7 does not boot in safe mode, you can solve this problem using several of the methods presented above. The main thing is to adhere to the established sequence. If the system continues to be unstable, the computer does not boot in safe and normal mode when turned on, the system reboots spontaneously, perhaps the main reason is technical malfunctions. In this case, qualified specialists will help you troubleshoot the problem after conducting a comprehensive diagnosis of your laptop or PC.
Video on the topic
Hello everyone, today I want to talk about how to enter safe mode in Windows 7, what problems may arise and how you can quickly overcome them, let's get started!
Sometimes after installing a new driver (program) or changing computer settings, the operating system simply stops starting (or malfunctions). Moreover, it is impossible to even eliminate the cause of the problem, because for this you need, at a minimum, to start the system.
In this case, starting in safe mode (failsafe mode) will help. This launch differs from the usual one in that it uses minimal operating parameters and only the most necessary drivers. This way, the file that is causing the problem will simply not be executed, allowing the system to start. And you can safely remove it from safe mode.
You should use Safe Mode for the following problems.
- Updating or installing a new driver. Usually the problem appears due to the graphics driver, because it is responsible for displaying information on the screen.
- Changing screen resolution. If the resolution has been changed to one that is not supported by the video card or monitor, the information will no longer be displayed. If you do not touch anything for several seconds, the system will return the initial parameters. But the user can randomly (for example, by pressing the Enter key) save the changed resolution.
- Viruses. There are viruses that simply cannot be removed normally. They run along with the system and block all attempts to remove them.
- Change settings. An inexperienced computer user may simply accidentally change important settings. For example, disable desktop display.
Now let's look at ways to start safe mode.
Ways to enter Safe Mode in Windows 7
The easiest way is when the computer starts. During the boot process, you must press the F8 key several times. If, after doing this, nothing happened and the manufacturer’s logo appeared on the screen, it means that pressing the key was done too late. You must repeat the steps by restarting your computer.
Sometimes the function keys (F1-F8) are disabled, and, accordingly, the system will not respond to them. To fix this, you need to first hold down the key Fn, then press F8. Function keys are most often disabled on laptops.
If everything was done correctly, a window for additional boot options should open.
We will be offered 3 options for safe mode:
- Ordinary.
- With loading of network drivers.
- With command line support.
Most often, only the regular version is useful.
After selecting the desired option, all you have to do is wait a few minutes, after which the operating system will be launched. Before we start, the system will ask us if we want to use System Restore. If a system backup (restore point) has ever been created, then this function will allow you to use this copy.
By default, restore points are created automatically when any major system parameter is changed (for example, installing or uninstalling drivers).
Starting Safe Mode from Windows
If you don’t want to restart your computer right now, you can start safe mode directly from the Windows environment. To do this we need to use the service msconfig. To do this, open “Start” and enter the name of the service in the search bar. You can also open it using the “Run” command.
After this, the “System Configuration” window will open, where you need to go to the “Download” tab. Now all that remains is to click on the checkbox “ Safe mode” and select download options.
We have 4 loading methods and 4 additional options.
- Minimal - Graphical operating mode with launching only the most necessary drivers.
- Another shell - Working using the command line.
- Active Directory recovery - Graphical mode with service startup Active Directory.
- Network - With the launch of all network components.
Extra options:
- No GUI - Disables the Windows welcome screen.
- Download log – allows you to save all download information in a log. It is saved in a file %SystemRoot%Ntbtlog.txt.
- Basic video – activates the minimum operating mode of the VGA graphics driver.
- OS information is a function that will show the user a list of downloadable drivers.
If you often use Safe Mode, you can enable the “Make these boot settings permanent” checkbox so you don’t have to set this data again in the future.
After saving this data, the system will ask if you need to start Safe Mode right now. If this is necessary, then you need to click on the “Reboot” button. If you need to log in later, you need to click “Log out without rebooting”.
Erroneous launch of safe mode
If the operating system itself starts safe mode without user intervention, then the computer may have malfunctioned. This could be due to the recent installation of a new driver or program.
The first thing you need to do is try to start the computer in normal mode. Most often, the system can be loaded even after errors appear. But if the launch turns out to be a failure, then you will have to correct errors in safe mode. You should start by removing those programs and drivers that presumably caused the failures.
If the automatic start of safe mode was made for a more serious reason, for example, loss or damage of system files, then everything can only be corrected using the system restore function.
Conclusion
Safe Mode allows you to solve many problems without resorting to such tough and time-consuming actions as reinstalling Windows. Therefore, everyone should be able to use this mode. Moreover, it runs approximately the same on all operating systems, so no matter what Windows is installed, there should be no problems with this.
A must read.
Diagnostic (safe) mode is necessary to troubleshoot various problems and system failures on a PC and laptop. If it is impossible to start Windows according to the standard scenario, you can try going into diagnostic mode and try to find out what’s wrong. It can also be useful if you want to reinstall a broken OS, and before that copy the information you need from your hard drive. This article describes such a feature of Windows 7 as safe or diagnostic mode, and provides instructions on how to exit the safe mode of starting your computer.
general information
An operating system running in safe mode uses only the minimum set of services and drivers necessary for operation.
The first thing that may catch your eye is the very low screen resolution due to the lack of drivers for the video card.
Such a denial of services allows you to log into the OS after incorrect installation of drivers or software, as well as after disabling any critical Windows service.
Thus, you protect yourself from incorrectly configured programs that make starting the system impossible. Here the computer user has access to the command line and can try to resolve the difficulties that have arisen by reconfiguring or removing certain software. If this fails, the diagnostic mode allows you to transfer all the necessary information to external media before reinstalling the system on your laptop.
Starting Windows Diagnostic Mode
In order to enter safe mode, you need to restart your personal computer.
After these simple steps, you will be taken to the system diagnostic mode. You will be able to see relevant notifications on the screen. 
When you need to log in as usual, just shut down your computer and reboot.
Problems starting Windows
If your system boots only in safe mode on your laptop or PC, your settings may have changed as a result of a crash. To reconfigure the launch, follow the instructions provided.
Any PC user may encounter problems with Windows 7. In this case, the malfunction can be so serious that the operating system, in its normal mode, will begin to slow down considerably or even refuse to start. Fortunately, there is a surefire way to fix all this, or at least diagnose it and identify the cause of the problem. Of course, we are talking about Windows 7 Safe Mode, also known as Safe Mode. This article is dedicated to him.
Purpose
Before that, it’s worth understanding what, in general, it is and what its purpose is. So, this is a special mechanism for starting the operating system, which uses only basic drivers and services. Simply put, even if some program causes your computer to malfunction, it simply will not turn on in Windows 7 safe mode.
First of all, Safe Mode is used for diagnostics. So, if the computer does not start in normal mode, but works quietly in safe mode, then the cause of the malfunction must be looked for in the software, and not in the hardware. Particular attention should be paid to applications and drivers installed recently. By removing such programs one at a time and trying to start Windows normally, you will eventually fix the problem.
Not everyone knows, but Windows 7 safe mode is divided into three types, each of which has its own characteristic features:
- Ordinary. Basic version with a minimum set of programs and drivers. In most cases, this mode will be enough for you to solve all the problems that arise.
- Network enabled. Almost the same as the previous option, but with the ability to use network connections. In other words, if you want to go online while identifying and fixing a problem, then this type of Safe Mode is ideal for you. The problem is that malware will also be able to connect to the network, which means there is a chance that it will cause even more damage to your computer.
- With command line support. By turning on this mode, you will see in front of you not the usual desktop, but an interface in which you can only enter special letter commands. This function will be useful to you only in special cases, so do not use it unless necessary.
Before you launch Windows 7 Safe Mode, it is important to decide which type is right for you at the moment. If in doubt, use the usual one.
Standard launch method
The first method to launch Windows 7 safe mode on a laptop or PC is good because it can be used even before the OS starts. It consists of the following:
- Once the computer turns on, press the F8 key. It is important to do this before the Windows logo appears, otherwise you will have to restart your PC and start all over again. If you are afraid of missing the right moment, you can press F8 several times in a row. Just don't overdo it, otherwise the command simply won't work.
- If you did everything correctly, a menu will appear on the screen with the ability to select the type of Safe Mode you need. Highlight the option you are interested in using the arrow keys on your keyboard and press Enter.
- Wait until the system loads all necessary services. Usually this process takes no more than a minute, but on weak computers it can take longer.
Please note that the Windows 7 safe mode desktop runs at a low resolution. If necessary, you can change this option if it makes it more convenient for you to work.
Login via settings
This method of enabling Windows 7 safe mode will suit you if your operating system starts, but slows down or freezes after some time. To use it, do this:
- Wait for the OS to load and press the Win+R button combination.
- Type msconfig in the line that appears and press Enter.
- A menu with system startup settings will open, in which the “General” tab will be opened by default. Here you need to switch from the Normal Startup option to the Diagnostic Startup option.
- Now go to the "Download" tab. Here you need to activate safe mode (check the box), and then select one of the options (recommended “Minimal”).
After this, all you have to do is confirm the changes made and restart your PC. If you did everything correctly, you will immediately be taken to Safe Mode. Please note that the next time you reboot, the computer will start in normal mode.
Activation via command line
Another way to start Windows 7 safe mode on a computer running the operating system. This is done like this:
- Wait until the OS boots and press Win+R.
- Type cmd and press Enter.
- Now type BCDedit and press Enter again.
- A list of various characteristics of your computer will appear. You need to rewrite (or remember) what is written in the "Identifier" section.
- Next, write “bcdedit /set (ID) safeboot minimal”, replacing (ID) with the data from the section of the same name (the ones you copied in the previous step).
- Close the window and restart your PC.
Be that as it may, this method is recommended only for advanced users. The fact is that to exit Safe Mode, you will have to go back to the command line and enter “bcdedit /deletevalue (ID) safeboot”. Otherwise, the computer will continue to operate in Safe Mode.
Emergency method
Although quite rare, it happens that you cannot enable Safe Mode using any of the above methods. In this case, do the following:
- Turn on or restart your computer.
- As soon as the Windows logo appears, click on the Reset button on the system unit. If you don't have such a button, you can use the power switch (you need to turn it off and then on).
- These actions will be considered by the operating system as a critical failure, so Windows will automatically prompt you to boot into Safe Mode.
Possible problems
When trying to launch Safe Mode, you may encounter some problems. Here are solutions for the most common ones:
- On some laptop models, you will not be able to use the F8 key to launch Safe Mode. In this case, you will need to press the Fn+F8 combination.
- If you have already launched one of the types of safe mode, but see only a black screen with letters in front of you, try pressing Enter or Space.
- Once on the desktop in Safe Mode, you will find that there are no icons on it. To add “My Computer” there, right-click on the table and go to the “Personalization” section. After that, open the “Change Icons” category and select the ones you need. Don't forget to apply the changes.
That, in principle, is all about safe mode in Windows 7. By the way, some of the methods for launching it also work in later versions of the operating system.
