VGA Mode

Updated: 09/12/2023 by Computer Hope

If Windows cannot load due to issues with a video card (e.g., outdated driver), you may need to restart the computer in VGA Mode. This mode of Windows uses basic VGA (video graphics array), which has a resolution of 640 x 480, allowing users to diagnose a computer problem, including video card problems. When VGA Mode is loaded, only the minimal video drivers are loaded.

Windows VGA Mode

VGA Mode can be accessed by pressing the F8 key shortly after the initial POST (power-on self-test) screen is displayed on the computer start up. If entered properly, a screen similar to the example above appears.

Tip

If you're encountering problems unrelated to the video display, we suggest using Safe Mode instead of VGA Mode to troubleshoot your computer.

Safe Mode, VGA, Video terms