Removing unwanted pop-up messages often depends on their source. They can stem from website notifications, browser settings, extensions, or potentially malicious software. For persistent or troublesome pop-ups, especially those related to malware or adware, entering Safe Mode can be a crucial first step in the removal process.
Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode for computers that starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers. This minimizes conflicts and can make it easier to identify and remove software that may be causing pop-ups. Safe Mode with Networking also includes the network drivers needed to access the internet, which is often necessary for downloading removal tools or updates.
Steps to Enter Safe Mode with Networking
If you are encountering persistent pop-ups that might be caused by problematic software or malware, entering Safe Mode with Networking can help you troubleshoot and remove the issue. Follow these steps:
- Click the Windows Start Menu ⊞ button.
- Click the Power button.
- Press and hold the SHIFT key on your keyboard.
- While holding SHIFT, click Restart.
- Your computer will restart and show a recovery screen. Click Troubleshoot.
- Click Advanced Options.
- Click Windows Startup Settings.
- Click Restart.
- Your computer will restart again and show a list of startup options. On your keyboard, Press the 5 or F5 key to enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Your computer will now boot into Safe Mode with Networking. You will see "Safe Mode with Networking" displayed in the corners of your screen.
What to Do After Entering Safe Mode
Once you are in Safe Mode with Networking, you are in a state where potentially problematic software has limited ability to run. This is the ideal time to take action to remove the pop-ups. Typical next steps include:
- Run a Full System Scan: Use reputable antivirus or anti-malware software to scan your entire computer for threats.
- Check Browser Extensions: Open your web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) and review installed extensions. Remove any extensions you don't recognize or didn't intentionally install.
- Review Installed Programs: Go to your computer's installed programs list (Add or Remove Programs in Windows Settings or Control Panel) and uninstall any suspicious or recently installed applications, especially those that seem related to the pop-ups.
- Reset Browser Settings: Consider resetting your browser settings to their default state, as this can often resolve pop-ups caused by browser configurations or hijackers.
By performing these steps within Safe Mode, you increase the chances of successfully removing the source of the pop-up messages.
