How to Boot Windows XP Into Safe Mode Using the System Configuration Tool

There are many reasons why one would need to boot up their PC in safe mode. Safe mode allows your PC to load up the bare-minimum that Microsoft Windows needs in order to function. This is great when you have an error on your computer caused by a newly added application and allows you to troubleshoot what went wrong in the system. If you are running Windows XP on your computer and need to boot in Safe Mode, this is the tutorial for you!

Step 1
This is the way to load Safe Mode while still in the Windows XP software. If you haven't tried using the reboot method, see the article link below in the resources section to be led to an easier, generally faster way to reboot your computer in Safe Mode.

Step 2
Before you start, make sure all programs are closed and not running in the background. You can check your task manager (that's a whole 'nother article!) to make sure everything is closed and no longer running on your system.

Step 3
Click the "Start" button in the lower left, then click on the menu option "Run." A new window will come up. In the "Open" prompt, type msconfig and press "Okay." This will bring up the Systems Configuration Utility program.

Step 4
Click on the BOOT.INI tab, and then click to put a checkmark next to /SAFEBOOT. Then click the OK button.

Step 5
You should now see a screen prompt asking if you'd like to restart your computer. Press the Restart button and your system will restart in Safe Mode after it has rebooted.

Tips & Tricks 

*Once you are done fixing whatever problems brought you there in the first place, be sure to go back into the Systems Configuration Utility program and UNCHECK "/SAFEBOOT." Then reboot your computer as normal to get to the regular booting of your computer.

*Be sure you know what you're doing before you go messing with important data files on your computer. Be sure to have an experienced computer user or your favorite nerd neighbor to help you out and supervise your actions!