From here you can access Windows diagnostic and repair tools like Reset This PC, System Restore, Command Prompt, Startup Repair, and much more. It’s also where you access Startup Settings, the menu that includes Safe Mode, among other startup methods that could help you access Windows if it’s having problems starting. In other words, Advanced Startup Options functions as the Windows 11/10/8 boot menu. This menu should appear automatically after two consecutive startup errors. However, if you need to open it manually, there are six different ways to do so. The best way to decide which method to use is to base your decision on what level of access you have to Windows right now:
If Windows starts normally: Use any method, but 1, 2, or 3 will be easiest.If Windows does not start: Use method 4, 5, or 6. Method 1 will also work if you can at least get to the Windows logon screen.
Time Required: Accessing ASO is easy and can take anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes, depending on which method you use.
Method 1: SHIFT + Restart
This is by far the easiest way to get this done. Just hold down either SHIFT key while selecting Restart, available from any power icon. All you do now is wait while the Advanced Startup Options menu opens!
Method 2: Settings Menu
Method 3: Shutdown Command
Method 4: Boot From Your Windows Installation Media
Method 5: Boot From a Windows 11/10/8 Recovery Drive
Method 6: Boot Directly to Advanced Startup Options
What About F8 and SHIFT+F8?
Neither F8 nor SHIFT+F8 is a reliable option for booting to the Advanced Startup Options menu. See our guide on how to start Windows in Safe Mode for more on this. In Windows 10, select the Start button, and then choose the settings button followed by Update & Security. In Windows 8, swipe from the right to open the charms bar. Select Change PC settings. Choose Update and recovery from the list on the left (or General prior to Windows 8.1). Another option is to open Run (use the WIN+R keyboard shortcut) if you can’t get Command Prompt started for some reason, probably related to the issue you’re having that has you here in the first place! On some Windows 11/10/8 computers, for example, pressing F11 starts System Recovery. What this option is called is configurable by your hardware maker, so the options mentioned here are just some that we’ve seen or heard. Whatever the name, it should be clear that what you’re about to do is a boot to the advanced recovery features included in Windows. If you need to access Advanced Startup Options, you can do so with any of the several methods listed above.
How to Exit Advanced Startup Options
Whenever you’re finished using the ASO menu, you can choose Continue to restart your computer. Assuming it’s working properly now, this will boot you back into Windows. Your other option is Turn off your PC, which will do just that.
