I would like to know what the best way to get a computer running Windows 8 or 8.1 into the light blue Advanced Startup Options menu is.
Also list the ways to get into Safe Mode if different from the ways above.
If possible, account for the fact that something is wrong with the computer and they cannot log in. Also, while I realize that SHIFT+F8 is a good way to get into the menu, most computers nowadays are "too fast" to see it.
My video drivers are broken, so it's kind of hard to open a command prompt. I'm not even sure if I am logged in or not.
Best Answer
How To Boot Into Safe Mode via CMD
Note: This will set the default to always be safe mode, so to undo that:
How to Boot Into the Advanced Menu (8/8.1)
This can be accomplished any of the following ways:
shutdown /r /o /t 0
Item 3 summarized:
Edit
Since you changed your parameters:
Otherwise, just get a linux disc and an external drive (or use GDrive/dropbox/whatever) to back up important data. Then reformat.