Safe Mode is a helpful diagnostic tool, but you'll want to get back to your regular system eventually. This guide shows you how to exit Safe Mode on both Windows and macOS operating systems.
Exiting Safe Mode on Windows
Getting out of Safe Mode on Windows is straightforward. It involves simply restarting your computer. Here's how:
Method 1: The Simple Restart
- Click the Start button: Locate the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
- Select Power: Click on the power icon. You might see options like "Restart," "Shut down," and "Sleep."
- Restart your computer: Select "Restart." Your computer will reboot normally, exiting Safe Mode.
Method 2: Using the Keyboard Shortcut (Sometimes)
Sometimes, depending on your Windows version, a keyboard shortcut can work:
- Press and hold the Shift key.
- Click the Restart button. This method may force a normal restart, bypassing Safe Mode.
Troubleshooting Windows Safe Mode issues:
If restarting doesn't work, you may need to investigate why your computer booted into Safe Mode in the first place. This could be due to:
- Driver issues: A recently installed driver may be causing problems. Consider uninstalling or rolling back the driver.
- Faulty software: A recently installed program could be causing conflicts. Try uninstalling it.
- Malware or viruses: Run a full scan with your antivirus software.
- Corrupted system files: Try running System File Checker (SFC) using the command prompt.
Exiting Safe Mode on macOS
macOS's Safe Mode is slightly different, and the exit process is just as simple:
Simply Restart Your Mac
- Click the Apple menu: This is located in the top-left corner of your screen.
- Select Restart: Your Mac will reboot normally, leaving Safe Mode.
Troubleshooting macOS Safe Mode Issues:
Similar to Windows, persistent Safe Mode issues on macOS might be caused by:
- Software conflicts: Uninstall recently added software.
- System extensions: Check System Preferences for problematic extensions.
- Disk errors: Run Disk Utility to check for and repair any disk errors.
Remember to always back up your important files before attempting any major troubleshooting steps. If you continue to experience problems exiting Safe Mode, consulting Apple Support or a qualified technician might be necessary.
