The described method uses the BCDEdit tool to change global boot options so that the classic Startup Settings menu appears automatically after POST, before signing in to Windows.
BCDEdit edits entries in the Boot Configuration Data (BCD) store. As documented, BCDEdit is a powerful, low‑level tool and requires administrative privileges. Incorrect changes to boot entries can render the system unbootable. When possible, the System Configuration utility (MSConfig.exe) is the safer alternative for changing boot behavior.
For scenarios where access to Windows is not available, Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE) provides a supported way to reach Startup Settings and other recovery tools. Windows RE can start automatically after repeated boot failures, or it can be triggered by interrupting the normal boot process twice; on the third boot, Windows displays Automatic Repair, from which Advanced options → Startup Settings can be selected.
The Startup Settings screen in Windows RE exposes options such as Safe Mode variants, low‑resolution video, boot logging, and disabling driver signature enforcement. From there, Windows can be started normally or additional recovery tools can be launched.
Because BCDEdit modifications to global boot parameters are not covered step‑by‑step in the provided documentation and can be risky, the recommended supported approach for most users is to rely on Windows RE and its Startup Settings rather than permanently enabling advanced options via BCD.
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