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F8 Not Working on Windows: How to Fix It
You can reactivate the F8 key by using the Command Prompt
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Windows computers have many issues affecting their performance, and one of the most effective fixes is restarting Windows in Safe Mode.
However, F8 not working on Windows prevents users from using the function key for booting into Safe Mode.
Why is F8 not working in Windows 10?
Safe Mode is an integral part of the Windows operating system. It is efficient for starting the operating system in a safe environment that allows a minimal number of apps to run on boot. Hence, it prevents disturbing programs from starting on your PC.
However, Microsoft thought the F8 method of running Windows in Safe Mode became useless since the introduction of Windows 10. They said Windows 10 and other recent versions don’t need the F8 Safe Mode because they load incredibly fast.
Nevertheless, there are numerous options that Microsoft has provided that you can follow to help start Windows in Safe Mode. Likewise, there are some fixes you can navigate to fix the F8 not working on Windows 10.
How do I get F8 to work?
Re-enable F8 via the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) Edit command
Reactivating F8 by running the above command will allow you to access the F8 boot menus functionality and get across the system’s disabilities.
If you encounter an issue withPC automatically starting in Safe Modeafter the above steps, check our guide for fixes.
How can I get into Safe Mode in Windows 10 with the F8 key not working?
1. Enter Safe Mode from the Start menu
The above steps will help restart windows in Safe Mode when the F8 key is not working. The Recovery menu houses the functions for troubleshooting the system. Read our guide onhow to fix the Safe Mode not workingon Windows 11.
2. Enter Safe Mode by System configuration
Tweaking the System Configuration affects the whole process it initiates. So, you can start Windows in Safe Mode by editing the System Configuration to fit your preferences.
3. Enter Safe Mode via the Boot Recovery mechanism
The Boot Recovery mechanism provides Windows with an option to repair the boot issues, prompting the to troubleshoot into Safe Mode.
There are otherways to start Windows in Safe Modethat you can try. Nonetheless, you don’t need to try all the procedures; try one and see if it works.
This guide on how to enable F8 for Safe Mode will also work on Windows 11 as well, so it’s worth trying.
Also, users complain aboutSafe Mode crashesin their PC that’s been frequent lately on Windows 10.
Alternatively, our readers can check our guide onhow to lock and unlock the Function keyson Windows 10. Likewise, we have a detailed guide oninstalling Windows updates in Safe Mode.
In conclusion, feel free to tell us which of these steps worked as an alternative to enable Safe Mode when F8 is not working.
More about the topics:Safe Mode,windows 10 fix
Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world.
He also enjoys gaming, writing, walking his dog, and reading and learning about new cultures. He also enjoys spending private time connecting with nature.
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Henderson Jayden Harper
Windows Software Expert
Passionate about technology, Crypto, software, Windows, and everything computer-related, he spends most of his time developing new skills.
Reviewed byAlex Serban
