In safe mode, only necessary programs are loaded.
This means modem drivers, graphics, video card, sound cards drivers
are not loaded. Don't even think of connecting to the Net in safe
mode since modem drivers are not loaded.
If you wish to connect to the Net in safe mode, choose Safe Mode
with Networking Options.
I doubt it will be faster, as it is very basic.
Normal online games like MSN Games, Yahoo! Games should have no
problem loading, but the screensize will be so big that parts are
cut off. These screensize can't be resized, so you won't like
playing in safe mode.