Steps to Fix Fn Key Not Working in Windows 10

But sometimes these keys stop working and now you have to open Action Center or Settings every time you need to adjust computer settings. If this happens to you, the following guide from TipsMake.com will help you fix the problem.

1. Make sure the Fn keys are not locked

In most cases, the Fn keys stop working because someone accidentally pressed the Fn lock key. The Fn lock key also affects other keys like Caps Lock or Num Lock, so it's easy to find out if the Fn keys are locked.

On the keyboard, look for the Fn, F lock, or F Mode key. Depending on the laptop you're using, you'll need to press once or press and hold for a few seconds. If this doesn't work, press the Fn and Esc keys at the same time.

Then try using one of the function keys.

2. Test the keyboard

If certain Fn keys still work, it could be a sign that the keyboard needs cleaning. If not cleaned regularly, the keyboard can collect a lot of dust and prevent the keys from working as they should. If you have enough knowledge, you can clean your laptop yourself, as long as you have the right tools.

Also, if you've connected an external keyboard to your computer, try these quick fixes:

1. Disconnect and reconnect the keyboard.
2. For the Bluetooth keyboard, remove the battery, wait a few minutes and reconnect.
3. Connect the keyboard to another computer and check if the Fn keys are working.

3. Run Hardware and Device troubleshooter

On older versions of Windows, you may have accessed the Hardware and Device troubleshooter through the Control Panel. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: In the Start menu search bar, type command prompt and select the best match.

Step 2: Enter:

msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic

Step 3: Press the Enter button.

Step 4: This will bring up the Hardware and Device troubleshooter. On this window, click Next to begin the troubleshooting process.

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4. Run the Keyboard . troubleshooter

If the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter isn't enough to fix the problem and get the Fn keys working again, there's another Windows tool you can use. This time, you can access it through Settings.

Step 1: Open Settings and go to Update & Security.

Step 2: From the left, select Troubleshoot.

Step 3: Click Additional troubleshooters.

Step 4: From Find and fix other problems, click Keyboard > Run the troubleshooter.

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5. Turn off Filter Keys

In Windows, the Filter Keys feature is designed to stop repetitive keystrokes. However, disabling Filter Keys can have a positive effect on the function of the Fn keys.

Step 1: Open Control Panel.

Step 2: Go to View by and select Large Icons and Small icons.

Step 3: Click Ease of Access Center.

Step 4: From the Explore all settings list, select Make the keyboard easier to use.

Step 5: Go to Make it easier to type and uncheck the Turn on Filter Keys option.

Step 6: Click Apply > OK to save the new changes.

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6. Update the keyboard driver

There is a chance that the Fn keys stop working due to outdated, corrupted or malfunctioning drivers. In this case, updating the keyboard driver should fix the problem. Refer to part 4 of the article: Fix the keyboard not working on Windows 10 for details on how to do it.

If you want to download the keyboard driver from the manufacturer's website, make sure to select the correct driver for your Windows version and processor type. Otherwise, it will lead to more problems.

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Above is a list of quick and easy solutions to fix function keys not working in Windows 10.

Good luck with your troubleshooting!

Jessica Tanner

Update 27 October 2021