Starting In Safe Mode

If you install a new program or driver and you cannot start your computer, try starting in Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts a basic version of Windows, loading only the drivers that Windows needs to function. Often, starting in Safe Mode enables you to uninstall the offending program or driver, or to use Windows operating system tools to fix the problem.

NOTE: In Windows XP, you must log in as an Administrator to successfully start your computer in Safe Mode. In Windows 7, you must log in as a user with Administrator privileges.

To start Windows in Safe Mode:

1 If your computer is running, shut down and turn off the computer’s power.

2 Wait 30 seconds, and then turn the computer on.

3 Before the Windows startup screen appears, begin pressing the F8 key.

The Windows Advanced Options menu appears. On some computers, if you press the F8 key too soon, you receive a keyboard error message. If this occurs, turn off the computer and try again.

4 Use the arrow keys to select the Safe Mode option.

5 Press Enter.

6 If your computer does not start, repeat this process, but select Safe Mode with Networking in step 12.