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Keys on the keyboard are not working

Cord W
Updated

If keys on your physical keyboard are not responding, follow these steps to get logged in and troubleshoot the issue.

Step 1: Use the On-Screen Keyboard to Sign In

If your password or PIN requires keys that aren't working, use the digital keyboard to log in first:

  1. At the Windows sign-in screen, click the Accessibility icon (the small person or human icon in the bottom-right corner).

  2. Select On-Screen Keyboard from the menu.

  3. Use your mouse/touchpad to click the keys and enter your password or PIN to sign in.

Step 2: Try Keyboard Function Shortcuts

Once logged in, attempt these key-combination toggles to reset locked keys:

  • Reset Function Lock: Press Fn + Esc at the same time.

  • Reset Number Lock: Press Fn + Num Lock (or Fn + F11) at the same time.

Step 3: Check Windows Keyboard Accessibility Settings

Windows features like Sticky Keys or Filter Keys can cause keys to stop responding or behave erratically.

  1. Go to Start > Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard.

  2. Make sure both Sticky Keys and Filter Keys are toggled OFF.

Step 4: Perform a Force Shutdown

If the keys are still unresponsive, restart the internal hardware controller:

  1. Press and hold the Power Button for 10 seconds until the laptop turns completely off.

  2. Wait 5 seconds, then press the power button to turn it back on and test the keys again.

Still Having Issues?

If these steps do not resolve the issue, your keyboard may have a physical hardware fault requiring repair or device replacement.

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