WindowsXP Trouble Shooting in Safe Mode

Before beginning this tutorial please understand it is designed for use ONLY with Windows XP and ONLY if there is a current problem which interferes with the normal operation of Windows.

This Tutorial provides a step by step guide to trouble shooting errors in Windows XP first in Safe Mode then in normal startup.

IF during this process you begin to encounter errors again, STOP - do not proceed with the steps. Where you encountered the error is what must be resolved before you continue. Either contact the software vendor or computer manufacturer if you're unable to resolve the issue.

Before you begin troubleshooting it's recommending that you BACKUP your your system state.

To do this, open Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Backup. From here Select Advanced Mode.

Click the Backup Tab and put a Check in the System State box. Decide where to save your backup by clicking the Browse button.

Click Start Backup to Begin. For information about Installing Backup in Windows XP Home Edition, Click Here.

This is where we'll begin to discuss entering Safe Mode for trouble shooting. First decide which mode is best for your situation.

Safe Mode: Usually most appropriate choice - doesn't support any network connectivity.

Safe Mode with Networking Support: If you're having problems with a network program or network adapter to connect to the internet or a network and need to troubleshoot, choose this option. Note: this mode does not support a pc card or modem.

Now that you've decided which mode to use, here are the steps for entering safe mode. You may want to print these instructions so you can follow along.

Note: NUM LOCK must be OFF before the arrow keys on the numeric keypad will work (2,4,6,8).

2) Your computer will begin to restart, at this time begin pressing the F8 key multiple times until you see a Windows Startup Menu (Boot Menu).

3) From this menu choose the Safe Mode you need in order to troubleshoot using the arrow keys and hit the ENTER key to continue.

Now that you're in Safe Mode - check to see if the problems that were present in normal mode are occurring while in safe mode.

default settings and minimum device drivers (keyboard, mouse, monitor, mass storage, base video, default system services) can be ruled out as possible causes for symptoms.

IF A NEWLY ADDED DEVICE OR CHANGED DRIVER IS CAUSING PROBLEMS... you can use safe mode to remove the device OR reverse the change.

Unfortunately there are some cases in which Safe Mode will not be of assistance such as when windows is missing required system files or when they have become damaged or corrupt. In this case the Recovery/Restore option may help solve the problem.