What Is Safe Mode?

Date First Published: 14th November 2023

Topic: Computer Systems

Subtopic: Computer Software

Article Type: Computer Terms & Definitions

Difficulty Level: 4/10

Learn about what safe mode is in this article.

Safe Mode starts an operating system in a limited state and only loads the necessary files required for the computer to boot. This is useful for troubleshooting and resolving problems within an operating system, like removing viruses and malware. If a problem doesn't happen in Safe Mode, then it is clear that the problem is software-related rather than hardware-related. This helps to narrow down the cause of problems and take steps to fix them.

In Microsoft Windows, there are two versions of safe mode: Safe Mode and Safe Mode with Networking. Safe Mode with Networking adds the network drivers and services a user will need to access the internet and other computers on the network.

What Happens During Safe Mode?

During Safe Mode, the desktop background is replaced with a solid black colour with the words "Safe Mode" at all four corners. All third-party drivers, apps, and utilities are disabled. Safe Mode starts up automatically if Windows fails to boot on the previous attempt. Once drivers and applications that are causing the issue have been uninstalled, Windows can be rebooted and loaded normally.

Safe Mode usually provides access to utility and diagnostic programs so that a user can troubleshoot what is preventing the operating system from working normally. Safe mode is intended for maintenance, not functionality, and it only loads the operating system in a basic state.

Safe Mode is most commonly associated with Microsoft Windows, but other operating systems have safe modes. The MacOS version of Safe Mode is called Safe Boot, which can be accessed by holding the Shift key as the computer restarts.

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