Windows 7: Safe Mode

I've installed Windows 7 HP 64 on new hardware. Had hoped to add MSE for security, but a validation problem prevented it.

I had to install Avast to get on the net safely. I think I now need to boot safe mode, disable Avast resident shield, and install MSE.

I cant get Safe Mode. I tap f8 as the bios runs and get the bios boot order screen, then Windows 7 boots normally. I've tried several times.

If F8 doesn't work, is there another way to enter Safe Mode?

Thx,
P

F8 to enter safe mode is std on most computers, if it is not for you either it isnt enabled in BIOS, or there is another key combo.

Check BIOS, and find out what the key combo is for your computer

Ke

Hi.
After I installed my Windows 7 I was already hooked up to the internet via cable modem. It only takes a second to validate Windows 7 while online. I then immediately downloaded MS Secudirty Essentials and did the updates.

I think you will be safe doing it that way. If you feel something may happen you can do a full scan with MSE.

A desperate way to get into safe mode is to hold down the Power switch till your computer shuts down. Now, when you start the computer, you should get into a black screen saying "windows did not shut down properly...." and present you with several options including safe mode.

Another way is to enable safe mode option at boot is in MSCONFIG->Boot options.

And what exactly do you mean by "validation problem"? I hope you are running a legit windows copy.

If as Bill2 says, you don't have deeper issues, to just get into safe mode when F8 won't work:

Start> Search Box> Type msconfig



In System Configuration window. Click on the Boot tab



Check the option titled Safe Mode. Minimal Safe Mode is the default Safe Mode option.



Click the OK button, you will be asked if you want to restart



Click the Restart button

After you are done, you can repeat and unclick the safe boot if necessary.

A Guy

This works. I'll have to use MSCONFIG: F8 is evidently a no-go with my bios.

Thx,
P

I had the same problem trying to Safe Mode for another reason - my PC would boot normally. I had to choose "Safe Mode with Networking" option to get my PC to boot into Safe Mode.

Rgds
Rod