Fix F8 key not working in Windows 10

If you upgrade to Windows 10 from earlier versions like Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7, you may have noticed that the function key to F8press during boot to enter Safe Mode no longer works.

Keys are F8still available on the keyboard, but it works with other key combinations to perform certain functions, especially when the touchpad or mouse is not working and you need to use keyboard shortcuts.

In this guide, TipsMake.com will show you what to do when you feel F8inactive in Windows 10.

Why doesn't F8 work in Windows 10?

Safe Mode is a native Windows feature, found in all versions of the operating system, used to troubleshoot various issues such as driver installation problems, Windows startup problems and related issues. malware or virus related.

F8 boot menu has been removed to improve system boot time. This is because Windows 10 boots much faster than previous versions, so you don't have time to press the key F8and enter Safe Mode during boot. Additionally, Windows 10 cannot recognize the keystroke during the boot process, which prevents access to the Boot Options screen, where you can select the Safe Mode option.

Instead, Microsoft has provided a new Advanced Boot Options menu feature that gives you access to troubleshooting options like Safe Mode and more.

You can still access the Safe Mode feature by pressing the key F8, but you must manually re-enable it with a few simple steps.

Fix F8 key not working in Windows 10

1. Reactivate the F8 key manually

Open Command Prompt with admin rights.

Enter this command in the Command Prompt and press Enter:

bcdedit /set {default} bootmenupolicy legacy

Note : The BCD or Boot Configuration Data Edit command is a native tool in Windows to control how the operating system boots. It also helps you easily reactivate the F8 boot menu.

Restart the PC and press the key F8repeatedly on the keyboard while the system boots and you will see the Advanced Boot Options menu , from which you can choose Safe Mode with Networking or Safe Mode with Command Prompt .

To disable the key F8again, open Command Prompt with admin rights and enter the following command:

bcdedit /set {default} bootmenupolicy standard

2. Enter Safe Mode without F8 key

There are other methods that can get you into Safe Mode, but they're not as simple as pressing a key F8. For more information, please refer to the article: How to enter Safe Mode Windows 10 on startup to know the steps to take.