Getting into Safe Mode is only the first half of the job. Once Windows starts with a minimal set of drivers and services, you can begin isolating the real cause of the problem.
If you have not entered Safe Mode yet, start with How to Boot Windows into Safe Mode (Windows 11/10 Guide). If you are already in Safe Mode, use the steps below to troubleshoot the system methodically.
1. Review what changed before the problem started
Think about the last few changes before the PC became unstable:
- a new app or game
- a new driver
- a Windows update
- a tuning tool or cleanup utility
- new hardware
This often points you straight to the most likely root cause.
2. Remove recent software or updates
If the issue started after a specific install or update, remove it first.
- Press Windows + R, type
appwiz.cpl, and review recently installed software. - Use View installed updates to remove a recent Windows update if the timing matches the problem.
3. Roll back or reinstall a faulty driver
Safe Mode is ideal for driver cleanup because non-essential drivers are not fully active.
- Press Windows + R, type
devmgmt.msc, and open Device Manager. - Look for the hardware category related to your issue, such as display adapters, network adapters, or sound devices.
- Roll back the driver if the problem started immediately after an update.
- Uninstall the driver if it is clearly broken, then reinstall the correct version after restarting normally.
If you need to download a replacement driver while troubleshooting, you may need to start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking.
4. Run SFC and DISM
If Windows system files may be damaged, run the built-in repair tools from an elevated Command Prompt:
sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthLet both tools complete before deciding whether the corruption is fixed.
5. Run a malware scan
Safe Mode can make malware removal easier because fewer background processes are running. Use the security tool already installed on the system, or run a Defender or offline scan if appropriate for your environment.
6. Use System Restore if the problem is recent
If the issue started recently and you have restore points available, run rstrui.exe and choose a restore point from before the problem began.
7. Restart normally and test
Do not stay in Safe Mode longer than necessary. Restart the PC into normal mode and test whether the change you made actually fixed the issue.
What if you get stuck in Safe Mode?
If the PC keeps booting into Safe Mode after you finish, use How to Exit Safe Mode in Windows 11/10 (and Fix Being Stuck).