The Windows key is an essential feature of the keyboard that performs a variety of simple activities as well as launching your Start menu. Because of its widespread use and acceptability, the inability to work can induce worry and dissatisfaction in users.
Every Windows user has probably experienced the problem of a Windows Key Not Working properly on their computer at some point or another. It is utilised for a variety of simple tasks and plays an important role on the Windows computer.
Windows key has little bits and bytes functions that are utilised at all levels of programming, from low to high. It is more handy than other keys because of several shortcut functions such as Win + R and others.
Because to the widespread use of this key, some users have complained about its inactivity and performance difficulties. They run into the issue of the Windows Key Not Working and do their best to figure out the best approach to get it working again.
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Understanding the Windows Key Not Working Issue
The “Windows key not working” issue refers to a scenario where one or more functions associated with the Windows key do not respond as intended. This can manifest in various ways:
- The Start menu does not open when pressing the Windows key.
- Keyboard shortcuts involving the Windows key (e.g., Win + D for desktop) do not function.
- The taskbar, Cortana, or other features accessed through the Windows key become unresponsive.
Common Scenarios Where the Windows Key Not Working Issue Occurs
- Corrupted System Files: System files responsible for the functioning of the Windows key may become corrupted, causing it to malfunction.
- Sticky Keys or Filter Keys: Accidentally enabling Sticky Keys or Filter Keys can lead to the Windows key not responding correctly.
- Third-Party Software Conflicts: Some third-party software or keyboard customization tools may interfere with the Windows key’s normal operation.
- Hardware Issues: Physical keyboard issues, such as a stuck or damaged Windows key, can cause this problem.
Now that we have a better understanding of the causes, let’s explore some effective methods to fix the Windows key not working issue on Windows 10.
How To Fix a Windows Key That Doesn’t Work In Windows 10
Today, following a thorough examination into the subject, we will cover a few alternatives that you can try to reactivate your Windows key. So let’s get deeper into this by looking at several choices. Let me warn you that before diving into the many options, you should make a backup of your personal files to preserve them secure for future usage.
1. Changing The Registry
Occasionally, this issue emerges as a result of registry difficulties. As a result, issue can be resolved by altering the registry on your computer. It’s best to be extra cautious while updating the registry because it can destroy the hard drive and the machine as a whole.
So, before updating the registry, make sure you have a complete backup of all important files so you can restore the old one if something goes wrong. To change the above mentioned, you must go through the following paths:
Step 1: To begin, open the Task Manager window and navigate to File, then Run a New Task.
Step 2: To proceed to the next step, type regedt32 into the Task Manager and hit Enter.
Step 3: Next, navigate to the left pane and choose the local machinesystemCurrentControlSetControlkeyboardlayout key.
Step 4: Expand that key and look for a registry entry called Snapcode Map. After you’ve found it, you should delete it and exit the registry editor.
Now restart your computer to see if the problem has been resolved. If you’re having trouble finding the Map entry, it’s likely that it’s missing from your computer. As a result, you must choose a different solution to fix the problem.
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2. Run a Malware and Virus Scan
Viruses and malware are well-known for destroying and corrupting files on your computer, rendering your system worthless. This could be the source of the problem with the Windows Key Not Working. It renders the Windows key useless.
Always run a virus scan from any antivirus programme once a week to be safe. There is a wide range of software on the market that can be used for this purpose.
You can also utilise the Windows Defender tool, which is included with the Windows operating system and aids in the removal of undesirable files. In order to begin scanning, you must first complete the following steps:
Step 1: Select settings from the start menu of your Windows operating system.
Step 2: Select the Update option, then launch Windows Defender to complete the process.
Step 3:Look for the shield icon on the screen.
Step 4: Once you’ve arrived, click the advanced scan option to complete the scan.
After you’ve removed the viruses from your computer, you’ll need to restart it to see if the problem has been repaired.
3. Disabling The Gaming Mode
Typically, users utilise gaming keyboards for either playing games or because their regular keyboard is damaged or malfunctioning. In such scenario, you’ll have gaming mode on your keyboard, which disables some keys while we’re playing games to provide us a better gaming experience.
If you press the Windows Key while playing a game, your game will be minimised and other applications will launch, generating a lot of problems for hard-core gamers.
As a result, most gamers choose gaming keyboards since they can support the mode, and these types of activities should be avoided. While experiencing the problem of the Windows Key Not Working, make sure that the game mode is turned on or off. If it was previously turned on, turn it off.
Other devices, like as the Apex M800, include a hidden gaming mode that customers are unaware of. To turn it off, hold down the SteelSeries key while simultaneously pressing the Windows key.
The keyboard’s instruction manual should be thoroughly examined because different types of keyboards have distinct modes that render their gaming mode worthless. Parts keyboards, such as Corsair’s, come with its own software that handles some of the keys and other functions.
To modify the Windows key functionality, you must use their software. Through Dragon gaming centre, then System tuner for MSI laptops, you can get the Windows key to work again.
4. Check Out The Lock Button
While some keyboards have a Win Lock button to carry out the same function, others support Gaming mode when switched on. It also disables the Windows key on your computer in the same way. You must keep an eye on whether or not you have a Win Lock button.
Along with the control button, this key is usually present. Once you’ve located it on the keyboard, hit it, and your Windows key will begin to function again. Your problem will be solved as a result of this. If none of these options work for you, there are still lots more to consider.
5. Make a New Account
Making a new account on your computer will solve the problem of the Windows Key Not Working. To create a new account, you must first complete the following steps:
Step 1: Go to the Accounts section of the Settings section and turn it on.
Step 2: Select Family and Other People from the drop-down menu.
Step 3: Select Add someone else to this PC from the drop-down menu.
Step 4: Finally, choose “Add a user who does not have a Microsoft account.”
Step 5: Give the new user a name and answer the remaining questions in order to validate the account.
You must log out of your current account as soon as you create a new one. He or she should sign into this newly formed account right away. The window key issue should have been resolved by now, however owing to software incompetence, this can be halted.
One must update any missing or corrupt files on the PC and then install all of the files and other items into the newly established account.
6. Run the System File Checker
Step 1: Find and open Task Manager, then go to File, then Run new task.
Step 2: Inside that, look for Create new task window, press cmd, and grant administrative privileges to all of the boxes inside.
Step 3: Type scannow into your Command Prompt Window and hit Enter for more information.
Step 4: The scanning process may take some time, so be patient while this is going on.
When your scanning is finished, restart your computer to see how it affects the Windows key’s functionality. If the problem is still present, open the command prompt and type DISM/Online/Cleanup-image/RestoreHealth.
If the scan yielded no positive results, DISM scanning may be considered. This can be quite helpful in getting rid of the issue. To begin, follow the preceding instructions to open the command prompt.
Then, to examine the results, type “DISM/online/Cleanup-Image/ScanHealth” and press OK.
7. Uninstalling Bad Keyboard Drivers
In order to fix this issue, delete the faulty keyboard drivers and reinstall them. Reinstalling drivers requires you to follow the instructions outlined below.
Step 1: From the Start menu, select Run or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc at the same time to go to the next step.
Step 2: The Task Manager will launch, prompting you to enter your information. Create a new task and run it.
Step 3: In the Run box, type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter.
Step 4: After going through the keyboard section, select Uninstall device.
Step 5: Uninstall the drivers that were the source of the problem.
Step 6: If you want to try your hand at using a USB keyboard, uninstalling the drivers is simple. You simply need to turn off the power source and then turn it back on, which will update the necessary drivers in your system.
Restart your computer to see if the problem has been resolved.
8. Use a Powershell Command
When it comes to resolving system issues, the Powershell command comes in helpful. It is a toolset included with the Windows operating system that allows you to delete unwanted files and directories from your computer.
You can try out a lot of different things with this tool, but you must be especially cautious when doing so. Any changes here could get you in hot water later. In order to progress further, you must complete the stages listed below.
Step 1: To open the task manager, press Ctrl+ Shift+ Esc at the same time.
Step 2: After opening the file, select Run New Task from the drop-down menu.
Step 3: Inside Powershell, check the checkboxes labelled “Create this task with administrative privileges” and then click enter.
Step 4: After that, type AppXPackage-Alluser|For each Add-AppxPackage-DisabledevelopmentMode and press Ok.
Step 5: By this point, the Windows key should have become operational. If not, don’t worry; we still have a few other solutions to consider in order to address this issue.
You should make a backup of PowerShell in case something goes wrong. To be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to build a backup ahead of time.
If, after trying all of these remedies, your PC is still unable to recover, the most evident cause could be the corrupted apps that are causing it to become disabled. As a result, you need re-register all of the apps on your computer.
To begin, open the Start menu and type PowerShell into the search box. Run it as administrator after opening it. Wait until your apps are re-registered before proceeding. After this method is completed, restart your computer to see if the problem has been resolved.
9. Restart File Explorer or Windows
The file explorer is the most significant component of your Windows operating system, since it assists you in a variety of ways. It has the potential to solve the problem we’re trying to tackle. To advance in this solution, simply follow the instructions outlined below.
Step 1: To start Task Manager, press and hold the Ctrl, Alt, and Del keys at the same time.
Step 2: On your Windows screen, look for Explorer and click the End Task option.
Step 3: Open a new task and choose the file.
Step 4: For the next step, type explorer.exe and then hit OK.
10. Disable The Filter Keys
This Windows key not working error can cause a variety of problems with the operating system. It could be as a result of the filter keys being turned on by accident. This has an impact on the performance of your system and produces numerous adjustments.
To switch off the keys, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Settings menu from the Start menu.
Step 2: Look through the settings for Ease of Success and pick it, then hit OK.
Step 3: Look for any special keys and turn them off to improve PC speed.
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Conclusion
The Windows key not working issue on Windows 10 can be a frustrating experience, but with the methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve it.
Whether it’s a simple restart, checking for physical keyboard issues, or adjusting accessibility settings, there are various approaches to fixing the problem and restoring full functionality to your Windows key.
Remember to perform these steps carefully and seek professional assistance if needed, especially if you suspect hardware issues with your keyboard.
