How to Fix Brightness Control Function Keys Not Working?

Several Windows users have been unable to use the Function keys for brightness after updating their computers to the latest build. This issue is typically caused due to incorrectly configured settings, problems in the BIOS settings, and a missing driver.

Below, we have discussed different troubleshooting methods you can try to get the brightness function key back to work in no time. Proceed with the method that fits your situation the best.

1. Make Sure the Fn Key is Enabled

In most keyboards, you need to press the Function key combined with the brightness key to make the desired changes. This is why, make sure the Fn key is enabled before you try modifying the brightness settings using the key.

You can try locking the Fn key so that you don’t have to press it every time to want to make these changes. In some keyboards, the Esc key acts as the Fn padlock key. On most keyboards, the Esc key has a small padlock icon.

When the Fn key and Esc key are pressed together, the Fn key will be locked. If the lock icon lights up, you’ve successfully locked the Fn key. Press both keys again to unlock.

2. Install the Required Driver

If you are using a HP laptop, you will need the HP Hotkey Support Driver for the brightness function key to function. This is likely to be true for other devices as well, which is why we recommend heading over to the official manufacturer’s website and finding a relevant driver from there.

We will be displaying the process for downloading and installing the HP Hotkey Support Driver in this method. 

Follow the steps below to proceed:

1. Launch your browser and head over to this website.
   
2. Enter the details of your operating system to check which drivers are available to you.
   
3. Now, download the relevant hotkey driver and install it.
   

   

4. Once done, check if the issue is resolved. 

If you already have this driver, then we recommend you update it via Device Manager. Follow the steps below to proceed:

1. Type Device Manager in Windows search and click Open.
   
2. In the following window, expand the sections to look for the hotkey driver.
3. Once located, right-click on the driver and choose Update driver from the context menu.
   

   

4. Click on Search automatically for drivers and follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver.
   

   

5. Once the driver is installed, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.
6. Alternatively, download the Standard PS/2 keyboard driver and check if that works. If you already have this driver, then follow the 1-3 steps again and click on Browse my computer for drivers.
   

   

7. Choose the Standard PS/2 keyboard driver and install it.

Hopefully, changing the driver will resolve the issue.

3. Uninstall the Update

Since the issue is typically caused by corrupt and faulty updates, you can uninstall the update as well till Microsoft launches an official fix for the problem. However, if the problem was caused by an .Net update, then we suggest waiting it out since you can’t uninstall this update. 

Here is how you can uninstall a system update:

1. Press the Win + R keys to open Run.
2. Type control in Run and click Open.
   
3. In the Control Panel window, click on Uninstall a program under Programs.
   

   

4. Choose View installed updates from the left pane.
   

   

5. You should be able to see a list of installed updates in the system. Right-click on the targeted updates and choose Uninstall.
   

   

6. Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed and then restart your computer.
7. Once done, check if the issue is resolved.

4. Use the Brightness Slider

In case the troubleshooting methods are not working for you, you can temporarily use the brightness slider in the taskbar to modify the brightness. 

Simply click on the battery icon in the taskbar to view the brightness slider. Use it to adjust the brightness and then click anywhere on the taskbar to close the menu.