The problem can be encountered on both laptops and desktops. While you will have to spend some time troubleshooting the issue in the case of the former, most users simply replace the keyboard. Most often than not, it’s a trivial issue that can be easily eliminated by following a comprehensive and systematic approach.

Why can’t I type on my keyboard Windows 11?

Problems with the keyboard could arise due to various reasons. The most common reasons include:

Hardware problems – In some cases, there could be issues with the hardware itself, where a few keys may malfunction. This could be the case if the keyboard is fairly old. Dust or particles – Oftentimes, if a few keys close to one another stop working, it could be that dust or an object got stuck under them. This could affect the keyboard, fans, or other functions. Outdated or corrupt drivers – Drivers connect hardware to software; if they are outdated, you may expect some problems, including keyboard problems. Device settings – If you have the filter keys feature enabled, for instance, it could cause issues with the functioning of the keyboard.

Besides, several users have reported that a special set, say Windows 11 brightness keys, are not working. If these are clubbed with the function keys, it could be that the Fn key is locked. With a basic idea of the underlying causes, let’s now head to the most relevant fixes when some keys are not working in Windows 11.

What to do if some keys on the keyboard are not working in Windows 11?

Before you delve into the fixes, check these 3 elements:

Restart the computer, as a reboot could help correct some minor device issues. Blow dry air through the keyboard if dust or particles are stuck underneath. If you are sure it is a hardware issue, you may replace the keyboard and save the stress of these solutions.

1. Run the Keyboard troubleshooter

If Windows 11 arrow keys are not working, or even the other keys, you should run the built-in troubleshooter. Microsoft offers several of these to help automatically identify and fix issues preventing the system and connected devices from working effectively.

  1. Press Windows + I to launch the Settings app.

  2. Navigate to the System tab.

  3. Scroll down to the Troubleshoot section.

  4. Click on Other troubleshooters.

  5. Now, locate the Keyboard troubleshooter, and click on the Run button next to it.

  6. Follow the on-screen instructions and choose the appropriate response when prompted to complete the process.

  7. Check if the keyboard is working properly now.

2. Reinstall the keyboard driver

If the currently installed driver for the keyboard is corrupt, you may find that some keys are not working. In this case, it’s best that you reinstall the driver. To identify a corrupt driver, look for a warning sign near the corner of the device icon. SPONSORED

3. Update the keyboard driver

Try using a third-party app if you find this method to update the driver rather intricate or time-consuming. We recommend DriverFix, a dedicated tool that will automatically install the latest driver updates and keep them all up-to-date. DriverFix will install the driver updates from its database of over 18 million driver files that are regularly updated.

4. Run a scan for malware

5. Modify keyboard settings

The Sticky keys feature keeps modifier keys, namely Ctrl, Shift, amongst others, to remain active even after you release them. On the other hand, when the Filter keys feature is enabled, the keyboard will ignore when keys are repeatedly hit to help users with hand tremors type. But, these two may make it appear as if Windows 11 shortcut keys are not working, and thus disabling them could fix the problem.

6. Check if a certain set of keys is disabled

6.1 Function keys not working in Windows 11

The function or F-keys perform a dual role, allowing you to use them both in their designated role and the one configured on your system. It could be either multimedia or increasing and decreasing the brightness and volume. If the F-keys are unlocked, they will generally perform the other role, as highlighted on the F-key itself, and it will seem like Windows 11 function keys are not working. On the contrary, if the F-keys perform the role to change the volume, it would appear as if Windows 11 volume keys are not working, with the function key locked. Here, all you have to do is lock or unlock the function key, as the case may be, to eliminate the issue.

6.2 Numpad not working in Windows 11

Many keyboards have a separate set of number keys to the right, often referred to as Numpad or the number pad. This imitation of a regular calculator allows users to input numbers quickly. But many find the number pad to be not working in Windows 11. This is generally because the number pad is locked. And to unlock it, you will have to hit the Num Lock key on your keyboard. Also, a small light on the keyboard could indicate when the number pad is locked and when it’s working. Besides, when the number pad is locked, the keys here will function as the arrow keys, which indicates that the set is locked. These are all the fixes you can try if your Windows 11 keyboard is not working, and one of these should help eliminate the issue. Remember never to discard a malfunctioning keyboard right away. Also, learn what to do if Windows 11 is not detecting the keyboard. Tell us which fix worked and your experience of Windows 11 thus far in the comments section below.

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