Safe mode starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers. If a problem doesn't happen in safe mode, this means that default settings and basic device drivers aren't causing the issue.

Learn about the recovery options in Windows. Find out how to reset your PC, go back to a previous version of Windows, or use media to reinstall Windows.

Learn how to use virus and threat protection options in Windows Security to scan your device for threats and view the results.

Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) is a set of built‑in Windows tools designed to help troubleshoot and fix common system problems. If your PC has trouble starting, Windows RE can automatically launch and attempt to repair the issue.

Learn how to access Windows device security settings in Windows Security to help protect your device from malicious software.

This is because the built-in security of Windows 10 in S mode automatically prevents viruses and other threats from running on your device. In addition, devices running Windows 10 in S mode receive security updates automatically.

Start your PC in safe mode. If you're having trouble restarting, you can start your PC in safe mode. See Start your PC in safe mode in Windows 11 for details. From safe mode, you can try the remaining troubleshooting steps. Check the Device Manager. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.

Starting your device in Safe Mode can help troubleshoot sign-in problems. If you can sign in using Safe Mode, it means that basic device drivers and default settings weren’t causing the sign-in problem.

Learn about the Windows Security app and some of the most common tools you can use.

Windows Security (Windows Defender Security Center in previous versions of Windows) enables you to scan specific files and folders to make sure they're safe. You'll be notified immediately if any threats are found.