How to boot into Safe Mode with BSOD 0xC0000218

With STATUS_CANNOT_LOAD_REGISTRY_FILE (0xC0000218), Windows often cannot load the normal boot environment, so you usually cannot reach Safe Mode the usual way. Instead, you must boot into Safe Mode via the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or use an installation USB.

If you can reach Advanced Startup / WinRE

Use this method only if your PC can briefly show the Windows logo or an automatic‑repair screen instead of looping instantly into the BSOD.

• Force‑interrupt the boot three times to trigger Automatic Repair:

  • Turn the PC on, and as soon as you see the Windows logo or spinning circle, hold the power button to shut it down.

  • Repeat this cycle 3 times; on the 4th start Windows should enter Preparing Automatic Repair.

• When the Advanced options screen appears:

  • Go to Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.

• After it restarts again, press:

  • 4 or F4 → Safe Mode

  • 5 or F5 → Safe Mode with Networking

  • 6 or F6 → Safe Mode with Command Prompt
    

If the PC instantly BSODs and won’t reach WinRE

If 0xC0000218 occurs so early that WinRE never comes up, you can only boot into a Safe‑like environment through Windows installation media (USB/DVD).

Insert a Windows 11 installation USB and boot from it (change boot order in BIOS/UEFI if needed).

On the setup screen:

1. • Choose language → Next → Repair your computer.Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart.

     When the PC restarts again, press 4 / F4 to enter Safe Mode (you’ll then have a minimal Windows‑like environment tied to the installer).

What to do in Safe Mode (if you reach it)

Once in Safe Mode, you can:

• Run sfc /scannow and DISM to repair system files.

• Try System Restore from Repair your computer → Advanced options → System Restore if you have a restore point