SAFE MODE
Why this subject
Very important computing tool
Did you try Safe Mode (Often an essential question when seeking help)
When bringing up this question often results in blank stares
What is Safe Mode
Excellent way to boot up a PC to diagnosis and treat hardware/software problems
Does not load any software (incl. drivers) unless absolutely essential for the operating system to function i.e. bare-bones
Automatic start-up programs do not start
Network and Internet connections are usually not present
Keyboard and mouse function
Sound and graphics cards are disabled.
Boots in Safe Mode but not Normal Mode: problem with software or device driver
What are some Examples of usage when no help from Normal Mode
Able to recover from problems created by bad drivers
Disabling or removing offending software.
Performance of tests, repair problems
Install/uninstall programs problems
Scan disking (clean disk) & Defragmenting
Removal of stubborn viri and spyware
Getting into System Restore
Reset password if lost i.e. built in Administrator Account (Home)
If Windows still hangs during startup, look online for updated drivers for the device.
If Windows freezes upon startup, reboot in Safe Mode
Correct monitor errors when necessary
If Windows still hangs during startup, look online for updated drivers for the device.
How
2 methods for Win98/Me/XP
1. F8 usually with first beep (see manual)
2. System Configuration Utility
1 method for Win95/2000
1. F8
Windows 98/Me
1. Boot up; tap F8 until you get the Menu; select option using arrow keys; press Enter; do required tasks and reboot into Normal mode
2. Close all programs; click Start; click Run; type MSCONFIG; click OK (see px)
Windows 98/Me (cont)
Press Yes; PC will start in Safe Mode; do your diagnostic & troubleshooting; uncheck box labeled Enable Startup Menu; Reboot in Normal Mode.
Windows XP
1. Boot up; tap F8 (see your manual); select option; Enter; accomplish your tasks ; reboot to Normal Mode
2. Start; Run; type in msconfig; OK; click tab Boot.ini; select the /SAFEBOOT checkbox, and click OK. When prompted, restart your computer to enter the Safe Mode. After finish troubleshooting, reverse the settings you changed in the System Configuration Utility; otherwise, your system will continue to restart in Safe Mode.
(Demonstrate)
Safe Mode Options
Safe Mode Minimal: uses a minimal set of device drives and services
Safe Mode with Networking: allows drivers needed for local networking
Safe Mode with Command Prompt: Cmd.exe starts instead of Windows Explorer
Adding to booting up Menu
Right-click My Computer; select Properties; click Advanced Tab; under Startup And Recovery, click Settings; in the resulting Startup And Recovery dialog box, click the Edit button under System Startup.
After Notepad opens, copy the last line of text and paste it in the next line; delete the description inside the quotes and replace it with Safe Mode; in the same line, change "/fastdetect" to"/safeboot:minimal
/sos/bootlog"; click File, Save, and then exit Notepad; click OK twice The Safe Mode option will appear the next time you boot your computer.