How to Boot into Safe Mode (Windows/Mac)
Is your computer freezing, crashing, or acting strange? If so, starting your computer in Safe Mode is a great way to diagnose and fix problems. Safe Mode is like a “clean version” of your operating system - it loads only the basic files and drivers needed to run, which helps identify if a background program or driver is causing trouble.
In this guide for home users across the Central Coast, we’ll walk you through exactly how to boot into Safe Mode on both Windows and Mac, what to do once you’re there, and when to call the friendly team at Zelrose IT for help.
What Is Safe Mode?
Safe Mode is a diagnostic tool built into both Windows and macOS. When you start your computer in Safe Mode:
It loads only essential files and services.
Most background apps and drivers are disabled.
It helps you identify software problems.
If your computer works fine in Safe Mode, the issue is likely software-related (such as a faulty driver, virus, or third-party app).
How to Enter Safe Mode on Windows
There are a few ways to access Safe Mode depending on your situation.
If Your PC Is Still Working (Normal Booting)
Click Start, then select Settings > System > Recovery.
Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
On the blue screen that appears, choose:
Troubleshoot
Advanced options
Startup Settings
Click Restart
When your PC restarts, you’ll see a list of options.
Press 4 to start in Safe Mode
or
Press 5 to start in Safe Mode with Networking (useful if you need internet access).
If Your PC Is Frozen or Won’t Boot Properly
Turn off your computer by holding the power button until it shuts off.
Turn it on and immediately hold down the power button again to force a shutdown.
Repeat this 2 or 3 times. On the third start, Windows should enter Recovery Mode.
From there, follow the same steps as above:
Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Settings → Restart → Press 4 or 5.
How to Enter Safe Mode on a Mac
Whether you're using a MacBook or iMac, Safe Mode is easy to access.
For Macs with Intel Processors
Completely shut down your Mac.
Turn it on, then immediately hold down the Shift key.
Release the Shift key once you see the login screen.
You are now in Safe Mode.
For Macs with Apple Silicon (M1, M2 chips)
Shut down your Mac completely.
Press and hold the power button until you see “Loading startup options.”
Select your startup disk.
Hold Shift, then click Continue in Safe Mode.
How Do You Know You’re in Safe Mode?
On Windows, you'll see the words “Safe Mode” in the corners of your screen.
On Mac, your system will feel slower and some features (like Wi-Fi or graphic effects) may not work normally - that’s expected in Safe Mode.
What Can You Do in Safe Mode?
Safe Mode helps you fix problems by letting you:
Uninstall recently installed apps or drivers that may be causing crashes.
Run antivirus or anti-malware scans to detect and remove threats.
Roll back Windows updates if your computer started misbehaving after an update.
Run System Restore (Windows) to return your PC to an earlier, working state.
When to Use Safe Mode
Use Safe Mode when:
Your PC or Mac keeps freezing or crashing.
You suspect a virus or malware is interfering with performance.
A recent software installation or update caused problems.
You need to remove a stubborn program that won’t uninstall normally.
When Should You Call Zelrose IT?
If you’ve tried Safe Mode and:
Your system still crashes or won’t boot.
You’re unsure what to remove or change.
You’d prefer someone to fix it for you - without stress or risk.
Zelrose IT offers fast, professional support for home users across the Central Coast.
We can:
Diagnose your computer issues in person or remotely.
Remove malware, fix driver problems, and restore system health.
Upgrade your system if it’s struggling to keep up.
Tips for Staying Safe & Stable Going Forward
Install only trusted software.
Run antivirus scans regularly.
Avoid clicking suspicious email links or pop-ups.
Keep your operating system and drivers up to date.
Quick Summary: Safe Mode at a Glance
Access Safe Mode
On Windows, boot into Recovery Mode and select Startup Settings.
On Mac, hold the Shift key while your Mac powers on.
Troubleshooting tools
On Windows, you can uninstall unwanted apps, run a System Restore, or scan for malware.
On Mac, remove unnecessary login items and use Disk Utility to check and repair the drive.
Restart normally
On both Windows and Mac, simply reboot as you normally would.
Need Help Getting Into Safe Mode? Let Zelrose IT Do It for You
Whether your computer is freezing, crashing, or acting strange - Safe Mode is a great first step, and Zelrose IT is here to guide you through it or take care of it entirely.
Call 0478 843 700 or visit www.zelrose.com.au to book a home visit or remote support session.
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