Starting Windows When Problems Occur

If you have a problem starting Windows, you can use one of several startup options to help you start Windows in a safe environment with basic files and drivers where you can restore settings and fix the problem. Safe Mode is a good place to start. If a problem does not occur when you start in Safe Mode, you can eliminate basic Windows files and drivers as possible causes of the problem. If you added a device or changed driver, you can use Safe Mode to remove the device or restore the changed driver, or you can use Choosing Last Known Good Configuration to restore settings saved when your computer was last shut down properly.

Start Windows When Problems Occur

Restart your computer.

As your computer boots, press and hold F8.

Use the arrow keys to select a startup option, and then press Enter.

If you have a dual-boot or multiple-boot system, select the operating system you want, and then press Enter.

Restore any recent system changes, or remove any newly installed software that might be causing the problem.

Shutdown your computer.

Start your computer to see if it works properly.

If problems persist, try a different startup option, or seek assistance from a support technician.

Computer Startup Options

Option	Description
Safe Mode	Starts with basic files and drivers and without a network connection
Safe Mode With Networking	Starts with basic files and drivers and a network connection
Safe Mode With Command Prompt	Starts with basic files and drivers and without a network connection to the command prompt
Enable Boot Logging	Starts and logs startup information in the ntbtlog.txt file
Enable VGA Mode	Starts using the basic VGA driver
Last Know Good Configuration	Starts using Registry settings saved at the last properly done shutdown
Directory Services Restore Mode	Restores active directory services for Windows XP Professional only
Debugging Mode	Starts and sends debugging information to another computer using a serial cable
Start Windows Normally	Starts the computer normally
Reboot	Restarts the computer
Return To OS Choices Menu	Displays operating system selection screen