Use These Tips to Fix Windows Key Issues

Windows key is the most versatile key in your Windows PC’s keyboard as it brings you the shortcuts for almost any task (major or minor) you want to perform. It became a part of the Microsoft Windows keyboard in 1994, and since then it has increased our working potential in many ways. Getting any troubles in the Windows key means giving farewell to some useful shortcuts. There are various reasons for why it stops working in the middle of the day. But fortunately, you can fix most of the issues on your own. How? Here is the guide to fix the Windows key within minutes:

Run the Troubleshooter

Windows 10 PCs have introduced multiple troubleshooters that will automatically repair the problems on your desktop. One of these troubleshooters is meant for your keyboard, which will fix your issue. Here are the steps to run the troubleshooter:

1. Right-click on the Start button and click on Settings.
2. Select Update & Security and choose Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Additional Troubleshooters.
4. Now, click on Keyboard followed by Run the Troubleshooter.
5. Grant permission to the troubleshooter for running so that it can start detecting and repairing the problems simultaneously.

Re-Register the Start Menu

Sometimes, the problem lies in your Start menu rather than the Windows. To detect the problem, click on the Windows icon from the bottom-left side of your screen. If nothing happens, then you have to fix the Start menu by re-registering it. Use the following steps to do so:

1. Give a right-click on the taskbar and select Task Manager.
2. Click on File and select Run New Task.
3. Insert ‘powershell’ and hit the OK button.
4. Insert the following command and hit the Enter key:

Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.ShellExperienceHost | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml”}

Once the command completes it works, you’ll notice the Start menu getting back to normal.

Use Another Keyboard

At times, the equipment of your keyboard can get broken or damaged, and it’s important to find the root cause of the issue. Equipment can break because of the hardware on the keyboard or the Windows 10 software. To determine the problem, you’d need a spare keyboard. Connect it to your computer and check if the Windows key works. If it does, then your original keyboard is broken.

Double-check if the result is accurate by connecting your original keyboard to another computer. If the Windows key still doesn’t work, then it’s time to throw away that keyboard. You can also choose to get it repaired.

Close Background Applications

If your Windows key works, but shortcuts involving it don’t, then probably the program on your computer is intervening with these shortcuts. To fix this issue, go to the Task Manager, and open the Processes tab to check all the apps and background processes running.

Now, check all the apps and close one at a time. Keep testing the Windows key after each app. Follow the same procedure for background processes, and leave the Windows processes as it is. Once you find the culprit, go to that program’s settings to find a way to disable its shortcuts. If there isn’t any solution for that program, then contact a developer or uninstall the program.

Update Drivers and Software

Drivers are bits of software that powers your computer’s hardware. Your Windows key can get broken due to an outdated or faulty keyboard driver. If you use a basic keyboard, then this theory doesn’t apply to it as standard drivers are built into Windows 10. Use the following steps to scan for driver updates:

1. Right-click on your taskbar and select Task Manager.
2. Click on File and select Run New Task.
3. Insert ‘devmgmt.msc’ and click on OK.
4. Now, double-click on the Keyboards category.
5. Right-click the name of your keyboard and click on Update Driver.
6. Now, click on Search Automatically for Drivers.

If this doesn’t help you fix the issue, then visit your keyboard manufacturer’s website to check for new drivers or software updates. Since a few companies have their unique keyboard customization software, you should explore everything to ensure you haven’t disabled the Windows key.

Disable Filter Key

Filter keys are an accessibility function in your Windows desktop. If it is enabled, it will ignore brief or repeated keystrokes. It might interfere with your Start button, so try switching it off using the following steps:

1. Right-click your taskbar and click on Settings.
2. Hit the Ease of Access option.
3. From the left-hand menu, click on Keyboard.
4. Under the ‘Use Filter Keys’ section, turn off the slider or toggle.

Try these steps to see your Windows key working again. Windows key will offer you access to the Start menu, and you can easily use all the Windows shortcuts. Knowing all the shortcuts will help you work faster and use your time efficiently.

James Walker is a self-professed security expert; he has been making the people aware of the security threats. His passion is to write about Cyber security, cryptography, malware, social engineering, internet and new media. He writes for Norton security products at norton.com/setup.

Source:  Use These Tips to Fix Windows Key Issues