Microsoft 365 Endpoint AdministratorDeploy Windows client (25-30%)Easy
A technician is troubleshooting a Windows 11 device that is experiencing intermittent crashes and errors, particularly when certain hardware components are accessed. The technician suspects that a recently installed driver might be causing the instability. Which Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) option would allow the technician to start Windows with only essential drivers and services, to help isolate the problem?
- AStart with Last Known Good Configuration
- BEnable Low-resolution video
- CEnable Safe Mode
- DEnable Debugging Mode
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Enable Safe Mode
Safe Mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, making it an ideal environment for troubleshooting issues caused by problematic drivers, applications, or system configurations, as it loads only essential components.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Last Known Good Configuration was removed starting with Windows 10/11.
- B. Low-resolution video only changes display settings, not core drivers or services.
- D. Debugging Mode is for advanced kernel debugging, not general troubleshooting of driver conflicts.
Safe Mode
A diagnostic startup mode for Windows that starts the operating system with a minimal set of drivers, services, and programs, making it easier to troubleshoot problems that prevent Windows from starting correctly.
- Loads only essential system services and drivers.
- Useful for diagnosing driver conflicts, malware, or corrupted software.
- Accessed via Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or System Configuration (msconfig).
Memory trick: Safe Mode is like putting Windows in a 'safe room' with only the bare necessities.