Win 10 - SAFE mode - No Apps?

[Cycloid Torus]

Hi, just a bit while ago I got into SAFE mode in order to chase a possible AV. So I typed "windows defender" in the search box - and NOTHING happens.

I'm still unfamiliar with Win 10 - is this normal? I can only access apps which are pinned or tiles?

Or maybe I've got the bucket on my head again...