How to get out of Windows 11 safe mode with a broken display

Title: Practical Strategies for Exiting Safe Mode on Windows 11 When Facing Display Issues

Introduction

Encountering problems with Windows 11, especially when your display is compromised, can be challenging. This situation becomes even more complicated when your system is stuck in Safe Mode and your screen is unresponsive. If you’re experiencing similar difficulties, this guide offers a comprehensive approach to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.

Scenario Overview

Suppose you own a Lenovo Legion 5 Pro gaming laptop, with a broken built-in display. You’ve been using it connected to an external monitor, but after installing a faulty driver update—specifically from NVIDIA—the external display is no longer recognized. Reboot attempts have been unsuccessful in restoring normal operation. Attempts to enter Safe Mode using system configuration tools (msconfig) have inadvertently resulted in being trapped in Safe Mode with an unresponsive or black display.

Understanding the Challenge

When your display fails or is unresponsive, navigating Windows becomes complex. Safe Mode is a troubleshooting mode designed to load minimal drivers, but if you’re stuck in Safe Mode with no visual output, traditional methods to exit Safe Mode become difficult. The primary issues include:

• Inability to see or interact with the display
• Potentially corrupted or incompatible graphics drivers
• System settings that restrict normal startup

Recommended Solutions

1. Use Hardware Button Options to Exit Safe Mode

Many laptops have specific key combinations or hardware buttons to force a reboot or exit Safe Mode:

• Perform a force shutdown by holding down the power button for 10-15 seconds.
• Power on the device and immediately press the F8 key repeatedly (if supported) to attempt to access recovery options.

• Alternatively, try pressing Shift + Restart during startup if any interface is accessible.

• Access Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) via Boot Interruption

If your system fails to boot normally, Windows automatically enters Recovery Mode after multiple unsuccessful attempts:

• Turn off your laptop, then turn it back on.
• As Windows attempts to load, hold down the power button to force shutdown.
• Repeat this process 3 times; Windows should then display the “Preparing Automatic Repair” screen, leading to WinRE.
• From there, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
• When prompted, press 4 to select Enable Safe Mode, or 5 for Safe Mode with Networking. If you wish to exit Safe Mode, select **