What is Safe Mode?

Building a PC is a process in its own right. From figuring out what hardware to use and installing each component into the case, to managing the cables, and finally powering the system on, hoping that everything is fully functional. But the fun doesn’t really stop there; you then need to install the operating system so you can play your favorite games and run programs that you use regularly. For a second, let’s assume all PC components are working as intended and all applications are installed correctly, yet you’re still constantly running into occasional stability issues, such as system freezing, BSOD (Blue Screen of Death), games crashing, etc. Most PC builders typically troubleshoot the components to find out what the culprit is. But what if all components check out to be good? The next logical step is to check the operating system and determine the cause of the issue. This is where Safe Mode comes in handy.

When your PC is loaded with many work applications, games, and utilities, it’s nearly inevitable that you’ll encounter some stability issues eventually, caused by a mix of factors. These can include software conflicts, unwanted programs such as malware, or online bots, which may be the reason for your PC’s performance issues. A good first step to troubleshoot this strange behavior is to boot your PC into Safe Mode.

Both macOS and Windows have Safe Mode built into their operating systems, offering a helpful way to troubleshoot issues. When you start your computer in Safe Mode, it loads only the essential drivers and services, making it easier to identify and resolve problems. Think of it as a simplified, stripped-down version of the OS that focuses on what’s truly needed for your system to run smoothly.

While your PC is in Safe Mode, you can try different methods to troubleshoot your system. For example, you can revert to the last version of your OS before the issue started. You can also run antivirus software to check for malicious programs or viruses that may have entered your system without your knowledge. Since your system’s OS is running with minimal functionality, you can identify each most recent program added, which can help you find the potential root cause of the problem.

And let’s say you need to download a key update to fix the issue. Even if your PC system is only running at limited capacity, Safe Mode with Networking will still allow you to update drivers or download OS updates as potential solutions.

While Safe Mode is a very useful method for troubleshooting a PC, it is only a way to identify what’s causing the stability issue your system is experiencing. It essentially allows you to go behind the PC’s OS to eliminate apps and programs that could be the culprit. However, it is not a permanent solution because, as mentioned above, when your PC is in Safe Mode, your OS does not have all the functionality needed to run your games and programs. You will need to boot your system back into regular mode once you have identified and resolved the issue.

If you regularly use your PC for activities such as gaming, streaming, working, or even just browsing, it’s best to include booting into Safe Mode as part of your routine maintenance. Being proactive about maintaining your PC’s health helps keep it in top condition, rather than waiting until a problem happens. You should periodically boot into Safe Mode to perform routine checks, like identifying any unknown files or programs, or checking if your PC components are functioning properly.

Safe Mode might be a fundamental feature of your OS, but when utilized correctly, it can be a lifesaver. It not only helps prevent future problems but also enhances the overall efficiency and longevity of your PC.