One of the best first steps you can take if Windows 10 won’t start properly or isn’t working as it should is to boot into Safe Mode. This removes much of what you’re used to and loads only the necessary components needed to start Windows. From there, you can do some troubleshooting to identify the problem.

Unfortunately, there is no easy shortcut on your desktop to enter Safe Mode, as it is an alternate way to boot into Windows. Getting there requires you to go through a few steps, but the instructions below make it simple.

There are a few ways to boot into Safe Mode in Windows 10. Some methods are easier than others, and most require you to open the ASO menu first. We’ll walk you through everything you need to do to get there.

Follow one of these first sets of instructions if you can boot into Windows. Otherwise, skip ahead to review your options if Windows 10 won’t boot at all.