So, you have recently updated to Windows 10 and there have been some issues in your system. You are trying to boot Windows 10 into recovery mode, but the shortcut F8 key or Fn + F8 keys do not work. Are you in a pickle? Do not worry! There are several ways to do so which we will discuss today. But, What is Recovery Mode? Recovery Mode is a particular way in which Windows boots when it faces critical system issues. This helps the CPU understand the magnitude of the issue, and thus aid in troubleshooting. The primary uses of Recovery Mode are listed below:
- Allows to Troubleshoot – Since you can access Recovery mode even when there is malware or virus in the system, it allows you to diagnose the problem with the Troubleshoot option.
- Saves PC from Damage – Recovery Mode acts as a defender by restricting the damage to your system. It limits the usage of services and devices, and disable hardware-related drivers to solve the issue quickly. For example, services like the autoexec.bat or config.sys files do not run in recovery mode.
- Fixes Corrupt Programs – Windows 10 recovery mode plays a pivotal role in fixing defective or corrupt programs while rebooting the system.
How to Boot into Recovery Mode on Windows 10
Before learning how to do so, it is important to note that Windows 10 can automatically boot into Recovery Mode when faced with a system-critical problem. In this case, boot the system a few times normally before attempting to boot into Recovery mode again. To learn more about Recovery options in Windows 8.1 or 10 and Windows 11, click here.
Method 1: Press F11 Key During System Startup
This is the easiest way to boot Windows 10 into recovery mode.
1. Click on Start menu. Click on Power icon > Restart option to restart your PC.
2. Once your Windows system begins to turn on, press the F11 key on the keyboard.
Also Read: What is Windows 10 Boot Manager?
Method 2: Press Shift Key While Restarting PC
There are multiple ways in which you can force your system to boot windows 10 recovery mode. Try to access the Recovery Mode from Start Menu using the steps given below.
1. Navigate to Start > Power icon as earlier.
2. Click on Restart while holding the Shift key.
You will be redirected to Windows 10 recovery boot menu. Now, you can choose the options as per your choice.
Note: Listed below are the steps to go to Advanced Recovery Settings.
3. Here, click on Troubleshoot, as shown.
4. Then, select Advanced options.
Method 3: Use Recovery Option in Settings
Here’s how to access Recovery Mode in Windows 10 using Settings app:
1. Search and launch Settings, as illustrated below.
2. Click on Update & Security, as shown.
3. Click on Recovery from the left panel and click on Restart Now under Advanced startup in the right panel.
4. You will be navigated to Windows Recovery Environment, as depicted below. Proceed as needed.
Also Read: How to Access Advanced Startup Options in Windows 10
Method 4: Run Command Prompt
You can use Command Prompt to boot Windows 10 into recovery mode, as follows:
1. Launch Command Prompt through the Windows Search bar, as shown.
2. Type the command: shutdown.exe /r /o and hit Enter to execute.
3. Confirm the prompt stating You’re about to be signed out to proceed into Windows RE.
Method 5: Create & Use Windows Installation USB Drive
If none of the above methods worked for you, then boot your computer using a Windows installation USB drive and access the repair setting as explained in this method.
Note: If you do not have Windows Installation USB Drive, then you need to create a bootable USB Drive on another computer. Read our guide on How to Create Windows 10 Installation Media with Media Creation Tool here.
1. Insert the Windows installation USB Drive in your device.
2. Select the following fields from the drop-down options given next to each:
- Language to install
- Time and currency format
- Keyboard or input method
3. Then, click on Next.
4. In the Windows Setup screen, click on Repair your computer.
5. You will be redirected to Windows 10 recovery boot menu blue screens as earlier.
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Recovery is essential and functionally viable. Furthermore, there are numerous routes that can be used to access the same. We hope that we provided comprehensive solutions on how to boot Windows 10 into Recovery Mode. If you have any queries or suggestions, drop them in the comments section below.