Not only this, Excel’s safe mode also allows you to identify the source of the problem so you can eliminate it at its root cause. The problem is usually caused by add-ins that interfere with the Excel files. There are three methods to access Excel’s safe mode, and all of them require no prior technical knowledge. Every method is pretty straightforward if you have a working laptop or PC. All three of them are explained step-by-step below:
Method 1: Using the Keyboard Shortcut (CTRL key)
This is by far the most time-saving method to access Excel’s in-built safe mode. All you’ll have to do is open Excel while pressing the CTRL key. Here are the steps to make this more clear:
The words Safe Mode written next to the file name indicate that you have successfully opened Microsoft Excel in safe mode using the CTRL key.
Method 2: Using a Command Line
Another method you can use to access safe mode on Excel is by entering a command in the Run dialog box, as follows:
Method 3: Making a Separate Excel Safe Mode Shortcut
To avoid using the CTRL key and command line every time, you can create a separate Excel safe mode shortcut for the application to always run in safe mode. Here’s how to do that:
How to Exit Excel Safe Mode?
Disabling safe mode in Excel is straightforward. Just close the Excel files in safe mode from your taskbar by clicking the cross at the top right. Now, opening an Excel file will launch it normally, not in safe mode.
Limitations of Excel Safe Mode
When using Microsoft Excel in safe mode, you lose access to some features available in normal mode. Here are the features compromised when operating in Excel’s safe mode:
You cannot load any Excel add-ins or additional features.You won’t be able to automatically access recovered documents.Your ability to create or access restricted documents will be limited.The Autocorrect list neither loads nor saves any changes.The toolbar doesn’t load as in normal mode, and it won’t save any customizations.
While you may lack some functions in safe mode, all basic Excel functions will remain available to assist with your work. If you cannot open Excel in safe mode or complete a specific step, please let us know in the comments below, and we will provide a solution.
