What is Safe Mode?

In Excel, Safe Mode is a special startup mode that runs Excel with only the core features enabled. It is meant for troubleshooting issues that may be caused by add-ins, extensions, customizations, or corrupted files.

When Excel is in Safe Mode:

• Add-ins and COM add-ins are disabled (so only the base Excel features run).
• Custom toolbar or ribbon settings are ignored.
• Startup files (like XLSTART workbooks or templates) are not loaded.
• Certain advanced features may be disabled, such as some ActiveX controls.
• Excel runs in a “clean state” so you can determine whether a problem is caused by Excel itself or by add-ons/customizations.

Normally, Excel only launches in Safe Mode if:

• You explicitly start it with excel /safe from Run/Command Prompt.
• Excel crashes during startup and Windows automatically offers Safe Mode.
• An add-in or extension fails to load repeatedly.

If your file is always opening or saving in Safe Mode without you forcing it, it usually points to an underlying issue—like a problematic add-in, corrupted registry settings, or Excel crashing during startup.

If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

hth

Marcin

Could you show as a screen shot of your Excel screen, which may provide more clues to diagnosing this issue?

P.S. In Office applications for Windows, "Safe mode" usually refers to the whole application (Excel in this case) running in Safe mode. For more information, see https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/open-office-apps-in-safe-mode-on-a-windows-pc-dedf944a-5f4b-4afb-a453-528af4f7ac72 .