In order to update the keyboard driver, follow the steps below: Enabling the Windows Key using registry edit allows you to delete configurations that could have been made by third-party gaming applications or other applications to disable the Windows key. What to Do if the Windows Key Stopped Working After a Keyboard Driver Update? Step 1: Click on Start (Windows logo) on your desktop and search for "cmd". This could prevent the Windows key from working since it is one of the most used keys. You will receive a call from Apple, tell them the issue you are having, and your account will be disabled. These methods are compatible with operating systems from Windows XP to Windows 10. Windows key features the Windows logo. While this may sound like a silly solution, it fixes most keyboard issues. Step 5: Make sure the Apply button turns off by clicking it, then click Ok. When your desktop or laptop restarts at the blue Advanced Boot Options menu, selectTroubleshootandAdvanced Options. Then press Esc while holding the Fn key. Why Is My Windows Key Not Working? However, most keyboards do have Fn keys for activating secondary key functions, such as volume controls on arrow keys. This is a typical function found on mechanical gaming keyboards that helps you prevent crashing out of your game. This guide tells you how you can enable Fn lock on your Windows 10, as well as how to configure the Fn keys behavior. This is a typical function found on mechanical gaming keyboards that helps you prevent crashing out of your game. The Windows key is the key on a keyboard with the Windows logo on it. If you have a mechanical keyboard with detachable keys, use the key puller to remove the Windows key and clean it inside as well. When you press it in combination with other keys, it also acts as a useful shortcut to utilities you don't get easily through your computer's graphic user interface (GUI). 4. If doing this does not solve your problem then check for any kind of . Heres How to Find Out, Monitor Goes Black Randomly? In doing so, you will no longer be able to use it on your device until you re-enable the setting. Disabling Sticky Keys will resolve abnormal Windows Key behavior. There are things you may be able to do to fix a broken keyboard. 4. Windows key is locked on alienware m15 r3 : r/Alienware Posted by DroagonDog Windows key is locked on alienware m15 r3 Hello! Scan your system for malware, and also check for any viruses. On my Latitude 7480, the Fn graphic on the F6 key is Scroll Lock. Hold down the FN and F4 keys and plug your keyboard back into your computer. If It does, Windows will also recommend solutions automatically. Tsering enjoys writing whether it's on new technological updates or movies. A restart automatically resets any setting or stops any applications that may be causing conflicts with your Windows key. When used with other keys, it calls up shortcuts that make getting things done quick and easy. A message will appear on the screen. Thereafter, look for anAction Key Modesetting on theSystem Configurationor other tabs. How to Fix it, Use Powershell to Re-register All the Applications. "+String(e)+r);return new Intl.NumberFormat('en-US').format(Math.round(569086*a+n))}var rng=document.querySelector("#restoro-downloads");rng.innerHTML=gennr();rng.removeAttribute("id");var restoroDownloadLink=document.querySelector("#restoro-download-link"),restoroDownloadArrow=document.querySelector(".restoro-download-arrow"),restoroCloseArrow=document.querySelector("#close-restoro-download-arrow");if(window.navigator.vendor=="Google Inc."){restoroDownloadLink.addEventListener("click",function(){setTimeout(function(){restoroDownloadArrow.style.display="flex"},500),restoroCloseArrow.addEventListener("click",function(){restoroDownloadArrow.style.display="none"})});}. Your computer will now search online for driver updates and install them. Even if you find your Windows key failure is hardware-related, don't give up. It's an introduction to Windows security and helping you to lock down your Windows machines. While its versatility makes it. Click on Changed advanced startupoptions to open the window shown directly below. Press the upper-leftmost key on the number pad, the one labeled NumLock, to toggle the numbers off (or on when you wish to use numbers again). The Windows key not working issue often occurs when the Windows key is locked. Many things can cause the Windows key to cease working, including hardware issues, Windows 10 updates, Windows 10 settings, or simply having that key disabled. A restart automatically resets any setting or stops any applications that may be causing conflicts with your Windows key. One of the solutions is to update your keyboard drivers, either manually or automatically. This might be interfering with your keyboard's Windows key, so turning it off might fix the issue. To apply the roll-back option, follow the steps below: You can disable the Windows key using registry edit, which changes the devices configuration settings. Check your PCs manual, or its manufacturers website, to find what the BIOS key is for your PC. Depending on your operating system, there are a few different ways to do this. There can be several causes for Windows keys not working. Fix 3: Set Default Num Lock State to Off in Registry. If you don't have a restore point, you may have to take the more drastic step of resetting your Windows 10 install to factory default. Refer to your keyboard user manual to determine if your dashboard has that keyboard shortcut feature. Turn on the on-screen keyboard. Make sure to disable Sticky Keys. Many of the Windows key fixes below are specifically related to Windows 10 bugs or features, but some of the basic fixes listed could also work for older versions of Windows. Time-saving software and hardware expertise that helps 200M users yearly. Disable it by pressing the right Shift key for 8 seconds. If the Windows key still does not work, it could be disabled on a system level. function gennr(){var n=480678,t=new Date,e=t.getMonth()+1,r=t.getDay(),a=parseFloat("0. Step 1: Press "Win + R" keys to open the Run Window. Click the\u00a0Type here to search taskbar button on your taskbar. Overall, Fn is an important key that provides numerous handy keyboard shortcuts for users. The troubleshooting tips below will walk you through the most common (and simple to fix) causes, and finally, down to the more advanced troubleshooting tips. options to open the window shown directly below. Copy-paste: sfc /scannow 3. Ryan Perian is a certified IT specialist who holds numerous IT certifications and has 12+ years' experience working in the IT industry support and management positions. Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day. Locate the control widget by system, current control set, control, power, and type the required value in the desired . On a Mac, press the "SHIFT", "CONTROL" and "OPTION" keys at the same time. Expand the Display adaptors section by clicking on the arrow icon. If you really cant see it, maybe your keyboard doesnt have one. Windows key is one of the most used keys with shortcut access to several applications and functions. Get started, freeCodeCamp is a donor-supported tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charity organization (United States Federal Tax Identification Number: 82-0779546). Some Logitech keyboards have keys for turning on and off game mode. Release all keys. Look for action key settings, and when you find them for your function key, you will probably need to use the Enter key on your keyboard to see the options to enable and disable them. Wait for it to complete, then restart your computer. Update your Windows 10 hardware drivers. For example, pressing only "L" on the keyboard will lock your computer. If you can't get into Windows, you should try resetting the password from a different administrator account. Windows key is one of the most used keys with shortcut access to several applications and functions. function gennr(){var n=480678,t=new Date,e=t.getMonth()+1,r=t.getDay(),a=parseFloat("0. In order to turn off the Gaming mode, you can follow the steps below. Check the keyboard user manual to learn more. Thereafter, look for an\u00a0Action Key Mode\u00a0setting on the\u00a0System Configuration\u00a0or other tabs."}},{"@type":"HowToStep","url":"https://windowsreport.com/function-key-lock-windows-10/#rm-how-to-block_632dbc5eaa2f9-","itemListElement":{"@type":"HowToDirection","text":"8. Step 1: Click on Start on your desktop, search for "device manager", then click on the first [and possibly the only] search result. That key is typically positioned at the bottom left of keyboards between the Ctrl and Windows keys. Thereafter, you wont need to press the Fn key to active secondary key functions. The key combinations for . Opening the On-screen keyboard shows the button highlighted constantly. Guiding you with how-to advice, news and tips to upgrade your tech life. Step 4: The scan might take a while. Step 3: Click on the link that says "Change how your keyboard works". 1. Typeadvanced startupin the search box and press Enter. Make sure the indicator light on this key is off. Select Run from the drop-down menu. This feature restores the driver to its previous state before the update. Right-click on your Windows logo icon on the taskbar. Check the manufacturers support documentation if youre unsure whether you have a Win Lock key or how to disable it. Randomly, out of nowhere Windows thinks my windows key is being held down (Pushing R opens the Run window) It usually happens around 30 minutes prior to starting up the PC. The most likely behavior you'll see if Sticky Keys is the problem is that other keys will act like you're holding down the Windows key even when you aren't. PresstheRestart nowbutton for advanced startup. If the Start menu still won't open, then the issue is likely with the Start menu. Disabling the Start menu will cause the Windows 11 Start button not working. It could possibly be a mechanical switch on the keyboards side. Step 1: Click on Start and search for "powershell". Restart your computer. If one of these fixes fails to work, you have several other options to try out. To configure the Fn key functionality, enter your PCs BIOS settings as outlined directly above for disabling Fn. Step 1: Click on Start (Windows logo) on your desktop and search for "cmd". Why Is My Windows Key Not Working? Try These Fixes, Fix: An Authentication Error has Occurred. I hope this article helps you fix a Windows key that's not working. So you got to be careful about these things. Make sure the Windows key isn't locked. Note: Users with older laptops and Windows platforms will need to enter the BIOS by pressing one of the F1-F12 keys during system startup. Not associated with Microsoft. You can use Windowss inbuilt Windows Defender. Look for a keyboard key with an Fn padlock icon on it. Here are some possible reasons: There is some dust or foreign matter stuck on the keyboard Sticky keys have been activated Driver or hardware issues You can follow these fixes to solve shift key not working on Windows 10. Then press ENTER or click the first search result. i am looking all over and can't find out how to set the number lock to on. Type\u00a0advanced startup\u00a0in the search box and press Enter."}},{"@type":"HowToStep","url":"https://windowsreport.com/function-key-lock-windows-10/#rm-how-to-block_632dbc5eaa2f9-","itemListElement":{"@type":"HowToDirection","text":"3. Say that many gamers choose to make use of this functionality when they go to play to avoid that in Windows. The F2 ad F3 keys no longer work to change brightness and my laptop is frozen dim. Copy-paste: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth 5. Some Windows computers may also have a key labeled . Fix PC issues and remove viruses now in 3 easy steps: FIX: Windows 10 & 11 encountered a problem installing the driver, DriverFix Review: Update and fix your drivers like an expert, check out our post on how to repair the Windows Key not working. Troubleshoot your Start menu. Earlier today I was playing with my friends, when my encounter with Luizinha from the scroll lock accesses on my keyboard, at the time I didn't even call but now I'm wondering why it lit up out of nowhere, I don't know, I suspect it could be a virus or something like that, but to make sure I'm going to do a scan. Remove dust particles from the keyboard with compressed air. A software tool that searches and installs all of your outdated and missing drivers on your computer automatically. If you find the article helpful, make sure you share it with your friends and family. (or scroll lock if it isn't f12) 0 Kudos sicat2 2 Bronze 52479 07-23-2006 01:21 PM Thanks parkertiit wasn't the F12 key but tried F11/NUMS Lock and that worked. Perform a clean boot in Windows 10 Launched in the mid-premium range, this smartphone is equipped with MediaTek's. Portlock Alaska & Other haunted ghost towns Today we're talking about a ghost town in Alaska that is rumored to have been abandoned because of. Some gaming keyboards also let you press the Function (Fn) key and a function key (like F12) to enable or disable the Windows key. So, let's explore the causes as to why the Windows key suddenly stops working and how to fix it. It does the job. Note Step 1: In Windows 10/11, right-click the Start button to choose Device Manager. We accomplish this by creating thousands of videos, articles, and interactive coding lessons - all freely available to the public. Esc is an Fn padlock key on many keyboards. In the case it does, then your previous one might be broken and will need to be changed. Transsion Holding's brand 'TECNO' (TECNO) has launched 'TECNO PHANTOM X2' in India, launching the first of the year 2023. So, lets explore the causes as to why the Windows key suddenly stops working and how to fix it. Right-click on the keyboard driver and select the , Right-click on the empty space within the. If using a wireless keyboard, it's possible that there's a connection problem. Step 4: Uncheck the "Turn off filter keys" checkbox. Don't bother about the errors. Its primarily used to open the Start menu, but its also required for certain keyboard shortcuts, such as opening the Settings app, thus we will show you how to fix the Windows key not working in Windows 11 error. Many gaming keyboards also have keyboard shortcuts that will enable or disable Game Mode. In order to disable Filter key, you can follow the steps below: If none of the quick fixes work, you can also run the keyboard troubleshooter to see if Windows can detect any issues. You can also go to Virus & threat protection updates and check for updates. Step 2: Dont just select the "Command Prompt" search result, click on Run as administrator on the right. Get out of the car and close all the doors. If you are not sure whether your keyboard has the Windows lock key or not, search Google for your keyboard model. Navigate to the following key: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System. We also have thousands of freeCodeCamp study groups around the world. Press Enter. i went in the registry, and changed the keyboard value to 2, didn't help . When enabled, Sticky Keys lets you press a Modifier Key (like Shift or Windows), and that key stays enabled until you press any other key. What Does the Fn Key Do Way 1: Utilize Keyboard Settings Way 2: Modify the BIOS/UEFI Settings What Does the Fn Key Do Fn is short for function. Go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced Go to the right panel and click on it. Jan 2, 2023 admin-crunchy. If Use Filter Keys was already disabled, then that wasn't the problem. However, since it impacts the OS, please take caution while using this fix. Click "OK" to save your changes. Step 3: Right-click on the keyboard you're using and click on "Update driver". By pressing the Fn key and other function keys like F1-F12, you can reach additional functions related to these keys. If you can, connect to a different keyboard and see if that works on your device. Most importantly, it fostered professional creativity, which he believes is direly needed in the security industry. It allows you to access the second assignment of a key. Step 4: The scan might take a while. Just be careful with the fixes that have to do with the command line. Disable Windows 10 Game Mode; a feature added to Windows 10 to make games run more efficiently and reliably. This article took you through several ways you can fix your Windows key when it's not opening up the Start menu or executing your desired shortcuts. Esc is an Fn padlock key on many keyboards. . So, try pressing Fn simultaneously with any key that includes a blue or green function symbol it. "+String(e)+r);return new Intl.NumberFormat('en-US').format(Math.round(69086*a+n))}var rng=document.querySelector("#df-downloads");rng.innerHTML=gennr();rng.removeAttribute("id");var driverfixDownloadLink=document.querySelector("#driverfix-download-link"),driverfixDownloadArrow=document.querySelector(".driverfix-download-arrow"),driverfixCloseArrow=document.querySelector("#close-driverfix-download-arrow");if(window.navigator.vendor=="Google Inc."){driverfixDownloadLink.addEventListener("click",function(){setTimeout(function(){driverfixDownloadArrow.style.display="flex"},500),driverfixCloseArrow.addEventListener("click",function(){driverfixDownloadArrow.style.display="none"})});}. For example, pressing the Fn key and an F8 key with a mute icon on it will mute the sound. Step 3: Paste in this command sfc /scannow , then hit ENTER. Depending on the keyboard model, the following keys may be alternate function keys: NUM LOCK INSERT PRINT SCREEN SCROLL LOCK BREAK F1 through F12 FUNCTION The F LOCK key toggles the alternate function keys. The Windows key is the most versatile button on the keyboard. In the upper-right corner of the keyboard, look for a Win Lock key. Running a scan will at least let you cancel out this possible cause. We're going to look at Portlock Alaska and after that maybe take a look at other haunted and creepy ghost towns! The BIOS program in your . To turn off filter keys, follow the steps below: Step 1: Launch the Control Panel by clicking on start and searching for "control panel". This issue can arise when you're trying to use it to open the Windows Start menu or use keyboard shortcut keys. If you're using a wireless keyboard, replace the batteries. With a second That's another reason why in my windows hardening course, my introduction course, I . Wait until it completes. Start by swapping keyboards (preferably with a newer keyboard) to see if you still have the same issue on your computer with a different keyboard. According to us, this is the first thing you should check if you encounter the keyboard locked problem. Due to its continuous usage, sometimes there can be issues like the Windows key stops functioning. Option 2. Type in devmgmt.msc and hit OK to open the Device Manager. In the upper-right corner of the keyboard, look for a Win Lock key. Step 2: Expand Keyboards, right-click your keyboard and choose Update driver or Uninstall device. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. How do I enable Ctrl C? If you read this far, tweet to the author to show them you care. Fix 1: Clean Your Keyboard You may have snacks and caffeine-powered drinks near your keyboard when you are typing. If Windows 11/10 blocks your product key, even after upgrading first & then clean installing, then we have a few suggestions to make: Uninstall the product key . Find your specific keyboard model below and follow the corresponding steps: Razer BlackWidow Chroma Unplug the keyboard. freeCodeCamp's open source curriculum has helped more than 40,000 people get jobs as developers. Try These 6 Fixes, Cookie Clicker Garden Guide to Unlocking Every Seed, Computer Turns On But Monitor Says No Signal (9 Ways To Fix), Outdated or incompatible Keyboard drivers, Under Sticky, Filter, and Toggle keys, turn. Plug-in the keyboard to a USB port. The keyboard should flash at this point. Microsoft accounts are usually locked if the account holder has violated our Microsoft Services Agreement. On some keyboards, you must press the fn key to enable that command. To turn on the on-screen keyboard, follow the steps below: Some gaming keyboards have features that disable the Windows key since pressing it mistakenly during the game can exit it. You cannot claim that Windows does not provide you with sufficient options to protect your computer since it does. 5. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Fix 5: Keep Num Lock Constantly Disabled With AutoHotkey. Check all your drivers now in 3 easy steps: button on your taskbar. Just like Caps lock and Num lock, some keyboards have a Windows lock key which toggles the Windows key on and off. If you have this issue, you've come to the right place. Then selectUEFI Firmware SettingsandRestarttoenter the BIOSsettings. If you enabled this, it could be the cause of your Windows key not working. If your computer has an outdated or corrupt driver, this could cause your keyboard's Windows key to not work. To update the driver, you can let Windows search for and install the latest driver or browse your computer to choose the downloaded driver to install. Ignore any incompatibility warnings that pop up. Jack focuses his extra time mentoring, advising, and investing. Fix this by opening the Registry Editor, navigating to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout\ and deleting the Scancode Map registry value from the Keyboard Layout key. Ryan Dube is a freelance contributor to Lifewire and former Managing Editor of MakeUseOf, senior IT Analyst, and an automation engineer. Fix 2: Disable the Num Lock Key Using SharpKeys. The shortcut key to lock and unlock the Windows key is Fn+ F6 or Fn + Win. This could be caused by several issues such as hardware, drivers, game mode, mechanical damage, and several other reasons. Any number of problems can cause your keyboard to lock or freeze up. If you see that only one part of your keyboard is locked then the Num Lock or Scroll Lock must be on or off. In the fields of physical security and information security, access control (AC) is the selective restriction of access to a place or other resource, while access management describes the process.The act of accessing may mean consuming, entering, or using. Step 4: Choose "Search automatically for drivers". and the number lock key missing is the newest iteration. Yes, you can undo Caps Lock without retyping. Check your keyboard for signs of physical damage or litter around the Windows key to ensure it is not a hardware issue. This feature might interfere with the Windows key too, so turning it off could solve the issue of your Windows key not working. To unlock Fn, press and hold Fn and the Esc key again. The Windows key not working error in Windows 11 can be solved in a plethora of ways. Perform hardware troubleshooting on your keyboard. There are different reasons why Windows key is not working, including keyboard issue, system settings, game settings or application settings. 2. Disable the\u00a0Action Key Mode\u00a0setting."}}]}. How to Disable the Windows Key While Playing a Game? So, thats how you can utilize the Fn key, modify its behavior, and disable it if you prefer. A multitude of keyboards includes Function keys. In the right pane, right-click and opt to create a new DWORD 32-bit value. If any of the applications or software is causing the Windows key malfunction, this fix will address the issue. Make sure you've set the Use Filter Keys toggle to Off. You should be able to disable the alt key there, however this will only provide a temporary solution, as I believe it will revert back at reboot. Release the FN and F4 keys after 10 seconds. Please follow the step below: If files are detected with malware you can quarantine, delete them, or perform other recommended actions. How to lock and unlock the Function (Fn) key in Windows 11, How to change function keys on Windows 11, Best mechanical keyboards for Windows 10/11 PCs [2022 Guide], 10+ best backlit keyboards to buy [2022 Guide], how to change Fn key settings on Windows 10. In doing so, you will no longer be able to use it on your device until you re-enable the setting. issue is to modify the display settings. Call it EnableXamlStartMenu. This feature helps people with disabilities who may struggle with pressing two keys at the same time. Procedure. If you are tired of manually updating your drivers, check out DriverFix. Choose whether you want to enable or disable your function key, save, and exit the BIOS program. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); If you have a tech problem, we probably covered it! The Windows key is an essential component of the navigation experience. Windows 10 is optimized for games with game mode, but this can sometimes cause keyboard malfunctions and some keys might stop working. Not associated with Microsoft. Donations to freeCodeCamp go toward our education initiatives, and help pay for servers, services, and staff. The secondary functionality is sometimes called action keys mode or hotkeys. Jack's breadth of experience has given him a unique insight into leadership and mentorship. If you have an extra keyboard laying around, you can connect it to your PC to see if the key still doesnt work. A similar thing it's done is activate the Ctrl and/or alt key when pressing the space bar. History of Portlock: As per wikipedia Portlock is a ghost town in the U.S . There is a known bug that causes unforeseen issues with many keyboards. Wait until it completes. If you use one of these keyboards, make sure game mode is turned off right on it. 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