Windows Key Not Working Windows 11: How to Fix it?

Windows Key Not Working Windows 11

The computer keyboard contains various keys with unique functions, including the Windows button, which enables users to access the start menu with a single key press. Additionally, by combining the Windows key with other keys like CTRL, ALT, or Shift, users can perform tasks such as switching between files, folders, and applications.

However, when the Windows key malfunctions or stops working, users face limitations in performing these operations. The inability to swiftly open the start menu and switch between Windows, desktops, and other functionalities becomes a significant inconvenience.

Cause of Windows Key Not Working Windows 11

Here are several possible reasons why your Windows key may not be working:

• Windows has disabled the Windows key.
• The Windows key has been locked by your keyboard, which is a common occurrence in gaming keyboards such as those from Corsair, Razer, and other brands.
• A malware or virus attack might have caused the Windows key to stop working.
• An app or service on your computer may have blocked the Windows key.
• The Game Mode or Xbox Game Bar in Windows 10/11 may have disabled the Windows key.
• Your keyboard itself may be broken, leading to the malfunctioning of the Windows key.

These are some of the potential causes to consider when troubleshooting the issue with your Windows key.

How to fix Windows Key Not Working Windows 11?

If the Windows key is not working in Windows 11, you can try the following troubleshooting steps to fix the issue:

Method 1: Disable Filter Keys

To resolve the issue, you can disable the Filter Keys feature. Follow these steps:

• Open the "Control Panel".
• In the search bar, type "Ease Of Access" and select it.
• Navigate to the "Make the keyboard easier to use" option in the Ease of Access settings.
• Scroll down and uncheck the "Turn on Filter Keys" option.
• Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

Disabling Filter Keys should fix the issue if it was enabled. If the problem persists, proceed to the next method.

Method 2: Registry Editor Fix

This method involves accessing a specific section of the registry editor. Ensure that you copy and paste the provided directory accurately. Here's what you need to do:

• Open the "Registry Editor" as an administrator.
• Enter the following address in the registry editor's address bar: "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlKeyboard Layout".
• Locate and delete the "Scancode Map" key. 
• Deleting this key should resolve the issue, as some games create it to prevent the Windows key from interfering. If you don't have this key or deleting it doesn't solve the problem, proceed to the next method.

Method 3: Disable Game Mode

Game Mode, usually enabled when you open Xbox Game Bar on your computer, can sometimes interfere with the Windows key. To disable it, follow these steps:

• Go to the system settings on your computer.
• Find and click on "Gaming".
• In the sidebar, locate "Game Mode".
• Toggle off or disable "Game Mode".

Disabling Game Mode should prevent Windows settings from interfering with the Windows key. If the issue persists, proceed to the next fix.

Method 4: PowerShell Command

Using Windows PowerShell, you can fix various issues, including problems with the Windows key. Follow these steps:

• Press the Start menu button and search for "PowerShell".
• Open PowerShell as an administrator. 
• Copy and paste the following command in PowerShell:
• Press Enter and wait for the command to complete. 

Depending on your PC and internet speed, this process may take a few minutes. If the Windows key still doesn't work, try the next method.

Method 5: Perform an SFC Scan

Performing an SFC (System File Checker) scan can help identify and repair corrupted files on your Windows 10/11 system. Follow these steps:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type "SFC /scannow" and press Enter. 
• Wait for the scan to complete, which may take a minute or two.
• Once done, restart your device and check if the Windows key works.

Performing an SFC scan can help resolve the issue by fixing any corrupted files. If the problem persists, proceed to the next method.

Method 6: Create Another User Account

Sometimes, an issue with the user account can cause problems with the Windows key. Creating a new user account can help determine if the issue is specific to your user profile. Follow these steps:

• Go to "Settings" and click on "Accounts".
• In the sidebar, select "Family & other users".
• Click on "Add someone else to this PC". 
• Choose "I don't have this person's sign-in information".
• Click on "Add a user without a Microsoft Account". 
• Enter a username and password for the new user.
• Once the user is created, sign out of your current account or restart your PC.
• Sign in to the new user account and check if the Windows key works. If it does, you can delete the previous user account.

Creating a new user account can help isolate the issue and determine if it's related to your user profile. If the problem persists, proceed to the next method.

Method 7: Use the DISM Command

The DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) command can help fix corrupted or missing system files. Here's how to use it:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Enter the following command: "Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup, Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth". 
• Press Enter and wait for the command to complete.

The DISM command will replace missing files or fix/reinstall corrupted Windows apps, services, or files, which can resolve the Windows key issue. If the problem persists, proceed to the next method.

Method 8: Check the Keyboard Layout for the Windows Lock Button

If you're using a gaming keyboard, it may have a Windows lock button or shortcut to prevent the Windows key from functioning during gameplay. Check your keyboard layout for any such buttons and make sure they are not activated. Examples include a physical Windows lock button or a combination like FN + Windows key to lock/unlock the Windows button.

Method 9: Unplug & Plug It Back In

Sometimes, simply unplugging the keyboard and plugging it back in can resolve the issue. Try the following steps:

• Unplug the keyboard from the computer.
• Untangle the wire if necessary.
• Restart your PC.
• Plug the keyboard back in.

This method can help if the keyboard's driver was not loading correctly. If the Windows key still doesn't work, it's likely a hardware issue with the keyboard.

Method 10: Try Another Keyboard/Replace Your Keyboard

If possible, try using another keyboard to see if the Windows key works with it. If the new keyboard's Windows key functions properly, it indicates a problem with your previous keyboard. If your keyboard is under warranty, you may consider claiming a replacement or repair.

Method 11: Replace the Mechanical Key

For mechanical keyboards that allow individual key replacement, you can try replacing the specific Windows key if it's physically damaged. Here's how:

• Remove the keycap of the Windows key.
• Use a tweezer to carefully pull out the mechanical key.
• Remove another key you don't commonly use in the same manner.
• Replace the pulled-out mechanical key with the spare key.
• Test if the Windows key works properly now.

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