I am seeking clarification regarding the different modes and startup options available under “Safe Mode” in recent versions of Windows (specifically Windows 10 and Windows 11). While the general purpose of Safe Mode is clear-to start Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services-there appear to be several options presented in the Advanced Boot Options menu: “Safe Mode,” “Safe Mode with Networking,” and “Safe Mode with Command Prompt.”
Could someone provide detailed information about the technical differences between these three Safe Mode options? Additionally, are there specific troubleshooting scenarios or limitations that would make one preferable over the others? Finally, is there any change in driver or service load behavior between Windows 10 and Windows 11 with respect to Safe Mode?
Any insight regarding these distinctions and best practices for selecting the appropriate Safe Mode variant during diagnostics would be appreciated.
