How to Access the Advanced Boot Options When Windows Fails to Boot

When your computer passes the Power-On Self-Test (POST) but fails to boot into Windows successfully, experiencing issues like freezing, a black screen, or a blue screen before login, accessing the Advanced Boot Options menu is a critical step for troubleshooting and system recovery. This menu allows you to select various Windows startup parameters, such as enabling Safe Mode or disabling driver signature enforcement.

For Windows 8, 8.1, 10, and 11

  1. Launch into Windows RE. Please refer to How to Access the Recovery Environment When Windows Fails to Start.
  2. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart
  3. After the computer restarts, you will see the Startup Settings screen. Press the corresponding number key or function key to select your desired option.
     

For Windows 7 and Earlier Versions

  1. Turn on your computer.
  2. Immediately after the POST completes and before the Windows logo appears, press the F8 key repeatedly and rapidly. 
  3. If successful, you will see a black Advanced Boot Options menu.
  4. Use the arrow keys to highlight the desired startup mode (such as Safe Mode), and then press Enter to select it.
      
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