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.

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 10 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.

Startup Repair is a built-in Windows recovery tool that helps fix issues preventing the operating system from starting. It runs from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and automatically diagnoses and repairs common startup problems such as corrupted system files or boot configuration errors.

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. It also serves as a central starting point for advanced tools used in manual system recovery. Access to Windows Recovery Environment There are different ...

Reset steps You can reset your PC when you are signed in to Windows or from the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE). Important During the resetting process, it's possible that your screen might go black for a long period of time (occasionally upwards of 15 minutes) and that your device might attempt to restart itself.

Learn how to change settings to enable Secure Boot if you are not able to upgrade to Windows 11 because your PC is not currently Secure Boot capable.

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A clean boot starts Windows with only essential drivers and startup programs, making it easier to identify and troubleshoot background software conflicts affecting apps or games. Unlike starting Windows in Safe Mode, it provides greater control to isolate the source of a problem

The Device security page in the Windows Security app helps protect your Windows device by managing hardware‑based and operating system security features, including Secure Boot, core isolation, and processor‑level protections. These features work together to defend against malware, firmware attacks, and system compromise.

To restart in Safe Mode: Restart your device by selecting Power > Restart . When you see the sign-in screen, hold the Shift key while you select Power > Restart. After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. After your PC restarts, you'll see a list of options.