Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working? Easy Fixes You Can Try Today!
Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working? Easy Fixes You Can Try Today!
If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 or just started using it, you might have experienced a frustrating problem: your Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working. Whether you’re using a laptop keyboard or an external USB keyboard, this can be annoying, especially when you need to type urgently.
The good news is that most keyboard issues on Windows 11 are easy to fix, and you don’t need to be a tech expert to get your keyboard back in action. In this article, brought to you by affordablekey, we’ll go through common reasons why your Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working, step-by-step solutions, and some tips to prevent this issue in the future.
Common Reasons Why Your Windows 11 Keyboard Stops Working
Before diving into fixes, it’s important to understand why this problem happens. Some of the common causes include:
Driver Issues: Outdated or corrupted keyboard drivers can cause your keyboard to stop responding.
Hardware Problems: Physical damage, loose connections, or dust accumulation can prevent your keyboard from functioning.
Software Conflicts: Certain apps, updates, or system changes might interfere with the keyboard.
USB or Bluetooth Issues: For external keyboards, faulty ports or Bluetooth pairing issues can be the culprit.
Accessibility Settings: Sometimes, Windows 11 settings like “Filter Keys” can unintentionally block key presses.
Step-by-Step Fixes for Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working
1. Restart Your PC
The simplest and most effective solution is often a restart. Restarting your system can refresh drivers and fix minor software glitches.
Steps:
Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete (if keyboard partially works) and choose Restart.
If your keyboard is completely unresponsive, use the power button to turn off your PC, then turn it on again.
2. Check Physical Connections
For external keyboards:
Make sure the USB cable is properly plugged in.
Try a different USB port.
If it’s a wireless keyboard, check batteries and Bluetooth connection.
For laptop keyboards:
Ensure no debris or dirt is stuck under the keys.
Lightly clean your keyboard using a soft brush or compressed air.
3. Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers
Drivers are the software that allows your keyboard to communicate with Windows 11. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause malfunction.
Update Driver:
Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand Keyboards.
Right-click your keyboard and select Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers.
Reinstall Driver:
In Device Manager, right-click the keyboard.
Click Uninstall device.
Restart your PC. Windows will automatically reinstall the correct driver.
4. Run Windows Keyboard Troubleshooter
Windows 11 has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix common keyboard problems.
Steps:
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Keyboard and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to fix detected issues.
5. Disable Filter Keys
Filter Keys is an accessibility feature that can ignore repeated keystrokes, sometimes making the keyboard appear unresponsive.
Steps:
Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to Accessibility > Keyboard.
Make sure Filter Keys is turned off.
6. Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft often releases updates to fix bugs and improve hardware compatibility. Installing the latest updates can resolve keyboard issues.
Steps:
Press Win + I.
Go to Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
Install any available updates and restart your PC.
7. Test Your Keyboard on Another Device
If your still Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working, test it on another PC or laptop. If it works elsewhere, the problem is with your Windows 11 system. If it doesn’t, the keyboard might be physically damaged and need replacement.
8. Check for Malware or Viruses
Malware can sometimes interfere with your keyboard functionality. Running a full system scan using Windows Defender or a trusted antivirus can help.
9. Reset Windows 11 as a Last Resort
If none of the above solutions work, you may need to reset Windows 11. This will reinstall Windows while keeping your personal files.
Steps:
Press Win + I.
Go to System > Recovery.
Click Reset PC and follow the instructions.
⚠️ Note: Always backup your important files before resetting.
Preventive Tips for Keyboard Problems
Regularly clean your keyboard to avoid dust accumulation.
Keep your Windows and drivers updated.
Avoid spilling liquids on the keyboard.
Use a surge protector to prevent electrical damage to external keyboards.
Install only trusted software to avoid driver conflicts.
FAQs About Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working
Q1. Why is my Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working after update?
A: Updates sometimes overwrite or conflict with keyboard drivers. Try updating or reinstalling drivers and running the keyboard troubleshooter.
Q2. How do I fix a wireless Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working?
A: Check battery levels, re-pair the keyboard via Bluetooth, or try using a different USB dongle. Also, update your Bluetooth drivers.
Q3. Can malware cause my Windows 11 Keyboard Not Working?
A: Yes. Certain malware can block input devices. Running a full system scan with Windows Defender or another trusted antivirus is recommended.
Q4. My laptop keyboard is partially working. What should I do?
A: Clean the keyboard for dust, check accessibility settings like Filter Keys, and update/reinstall drivers. If issues persist, hardware repair may be needed.
Q5. Is there a way to temporarily type without a keyboard in Windows 11?
A: Yes! You can use the On-Screen Keyboard. Press Win + Ctrl + O to open it.
