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Fixing Error: Not in Safe Mode Driver – 4 Solutions to Resolve It

2024/08/29
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • Reinstall or update drivers in Safe Mode.
  • Use NtLoadDriver for manual diagnostics.
  • Modify registry settings for SafeBoot to resolve loading issues.

Resolving the ERROR_NOT_SAFE_MODE_DRIVER in Windows: A Practical Guide

Experiencing the ERROR_NOT_SAFE_MODE_DRIVER while troubleshooting in Safe Mode can be extremely challenging. This guide outlines proven methods to identify and resolve driver issues effectively to ensure smooth operation.

Solutions for the ERROR_NOT_SAFE_MODE_DRIVER Error

Step 1: Update or Reinstall the Driver in Safe Mode

To address driver issues when in Safe Mode, follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, navigate to the Boot tab, check Safe boot, and select Minimal. Restart your computer to initiate Safe Mode.
  2. Once in Safe Mode, press Win + X and choose Device Manager.
  3. Locate the problematic driver, right-click it, and select either Update or Rollback.
  4. Return to msconfig, uncheck Safe boot, and restart your computer.

Pro Tip: It’s often helpful to visit the manufacturer’s website to download the most updated driver version directly.

Step 2: Utilize NtLoadDriver for Error Diagnosis

This tool can assist in determining if the driver can load correctly:

  1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Shift + Ctrl + Enter to open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Employ a tool that invokes NtLoadDriver() to load your driver manually.
  3. A return value of 0xC000035F (STATUS_NOT_SAFE_MODE_DRIVER) indicates a restriction due to Safe Mode.
  4. Referencing the returned NTSTATUS code will aid in pinpointing the reasons for driver loading failure.

Step 3: Modify SafeBoot Registry Settings

Adjusting registry settings can be critical for driver loading:

  1. Press Win + R, input regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SafeBoot\Minimal .
  3. Right-click Minimal, select New, then Key. Name the key after your driver (e.g., Driver64.sys) and set its default value to Driver.
  4. Next, go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SafeBoot\Network .
  5. Repeat the process by adding another key for your driver name and setting its default value.
  6. Verify that the driver file (e.g., Driver64.sys) is located in C:\Windows\System32\drivers .

Step 4: Verify Driver Signature Compliance

To ensure your driver is compliant, complete the following:

  1. Check that your driver is signed with an Extended Validation (EV) SHA-256 certificate.
  2. Consider submitting your driver for Microsoft co-signing through HLK or an attestation service.
  3. Avoid using drivers that still carry an outdated SHA-1 signature.
  4. As a troubleshooting measure, you can temporarily disable SecureBoot in the BIOS.

Summary

Dealing with the ERROR_NOT_SAFE_MODE_DRIVER error may seem daunting, but with these straightforward steps—updating drivers, using diagnostic tools, modifying registry settings, and ensuring driver compliance—you can effectively resolve the issue.

Conclusion

While the ERROR_NOT_SAFE_MODE_DRIVER error can interrupt your workflow, implementing these troubleshooting techniques can restore your system’s functionality. Stay proactive in managing your drivers to prevent future issues.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What causes the ERROR_NOT_SAFE_MODE_DRIVER error?

This error typically arises when a required driver cannot load due to the restrictions imposed by Safe Mode.

PC Repair