How to Leave Safe Mode in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Stuck in Safe Mode on Windows 11 and can’t figure out how to get back to normal mode? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Safe Mode is a handy troubleshooting feature, but it limits many functions, and you probably want your PC back to full performance. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to exit Safe Mode in Windows 11 using multiple methods.

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✅ What Is Safe Mode in Windows 11?

Safe Mode is a special diagnostic mode in Windows that loads only the essential system files and drivers. It’s designed to help troubleshoot problems like:

• Driver issues

• Malware infections

• Startup errors

While useful, Safe Mode disables most apps, networking (unless you enable it), and even lowers your screen resolution. So, once you’re done fixing issues, you’ll want to leave Safe Mode and return to normal Windows.

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How Do You Know You’re in Safe Mode?

Here are some signs:

• Your screen resolution is lower than usual.

• “Safe Mode” is displayed in the corners of your screen.

• Limited functionality—some apps or features won’t open.

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✅ Why Might You Be Stuck in Safe Mode?

• You enabled Safe Boot in System Configuration (msconfig) and forgot to turn it off.

• You entered Advanced Startup Options and selected Safe Mode.

• A recent crash or error forced Windows into Safe Mode.

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✅ How to Leave Safe Mode in Windows 11: 6 Methods

Let’s go through all the reliable ways to exit Safe Mode.

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Method 1: Restart Your PC Normally

In most cases, a simple restart will bring your PC back to normal mode.

Steps:

1. Click Start > Power > Restart.

2. Wait for your PC to boot up.

If it still loads into Safe Mode, try the next method.

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Method 2: Disable Safe Boot in System Configuration (msconfig)

This is the most common reason people get stuck.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

2. Go to the Boot tab.

3. Uncheck Safe boot.

4. Click Apply and then OK.

5. Restart your PC.

Your PC should now boot into normal mode.

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Method 3: Use Advanced Startup Options

If you can’t access the desktop normally, try this.

Steps:

1. Press Shift and click Restart from the Start menu.

2. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings.

3. Click Restart.

4. Press Enter to boot normally.

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Method 4: Exit Safe Mode via Command Prompt

If you’re in Safe Mode with Command Prompt, use this method.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.

2. Type:

3. Press Enter.

4. Restart your PC.

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Method 5: Use Settings App (If Accessible)

If you can open Settings:

1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery.

2. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

3. Choose Startup Settings > Restart.

4. Select Enable normal mode.

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Method 6: Fix Black Screen or Login Issues

If your screen goes black after Safe Mode or you can’t log in:

• Boot into Advanced Startup and select Startup Repair.

• Use System Restore if available.

• Disable Safe Boot via Command Prompt as shown above.

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✅ What If None of These Methods Work?

If you’re still stuck:

• Boot into Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

• Use System Restore or Reset this PC.

• As a last resort, reinstall Windows 11.

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✅ Quick Tips to Avoid Getting Stuck in Safe Mode Again

• Always uncheck Safe Boot in msconfig after troubleshooting.

• Restart twice after disabling Safe Mode settings.

• Keep System Restore enabled for emergencies.

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✅ Final Thoughts

Safe Mode is a great troubleshooting tool, but you shouldn’t stay in it longer than necessary. The methods above—especially disabling Safe Boot in msconfig—will almost always solve the problem. If nothing works, recovery options like Startup Repair or Reset this PC will help you get back to normal.

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✅ FAQs

1. Why does my PC keep booting into Safe Mode?
Because Safe Boot is still enabled in msconfig or there’s a startup issue.

2. Can I exit Safe Mode without logging in?
Yes, through Advanced Startup Options or Command Prompt in WinRE.

3. Is Safe Mode bad for my PC?
No, it’s safe, but it limits features and is not meant for everyday use.

4. What’s the difference between Safe Mode and Normal Mode?
Safe Mode loads only essential drivers, while Normal Mode loads all drivers and apps.

5. How do I know if I’m in Safe Mode?
You’ll see “Safe Mode” in the screen corners and have lower screen resolution.