MANUFACTURING MODE ACTIVE

Question

How do I get my computer to return to normal running mode?

Answer 1

"Manufacturing mode" in this context refers to Windows running in Audit mode or, for Windows in S mode, having the ManufacturingMode registry key enabled so factory tools and unsigned code can run. To return the computer to normal user mode, manufacturing mode must be disabled and the system prepared for Out-of-box Experience (OOBE).

For a Windows device that is stuck in a special startup mode (like Safe Mode) rather than normal mode, the boot configuration must also be reset.

Use the path that matches the situation.

1. If this is a Windows in S mode factory/manufacturing device
2. Boot the PC into Audit mode (this is typically how the device is when manufacturing mode is active).
3. Open Command Prompt.
4. Remove the manufacturing registry key:

      reg delete HKLM\system\ControlSet001\Control\CI\Policy /v ManufacturingMode
   

5. Optionally confirm removal in Registry Editor by checking: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\ControlSet001\Control\CI\Policy and verifying there is no ManufacturingMode value.
6. When all factory customizations are complete, run Sysprep with OOBE so the machine boots like a normal end‑user system:

      sysprep /oobe
   

7. Shut down the PC and then restart; it will boot into the standard Windows out‑of‑box experience and then normal mode.

If a recovery package is created for this device, ensure the ManufacturingMode registry key is excluded so it does not re‑enter manufacturing mode when reset.

2. If the PC keeps booting into Safe Mode instead of normal Windows

If the system is repeatedly starting in Safe Mode, clear the Safe Boot option:

Using System Configuration (msconfig):

1. Press Windows key + R.
2. Type msconfig and select OK.
3. Go to the Boot tab.
4. Under Boot options, clear the Safe boot checkbox.
5. Apply and restart; Windows should now boot in normal mode.

Or using BCDEdit (for Vista and later):

1. Open an elevated Command Prompt (Run as administrator).
2. Run:

      bcdedit /deletevalue {default} safeboot
   

3. Restart the PC; it should now boot normally.

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References:

• Enable manufacturing mode
• S mode manufacturing environment
• Run Audit mode in the factory
• Unable to boot into normal mode, machine keeps booting into safe mode
• Windows Startup Settings