How to Enable and Disable the Windows Key

When the Windows key stops working, users can’t open the Start menu or use shortcuts like Windows + E for File Explorer. This problem often occurs due to accidental software changes or changes made in gaming settings. If the key is disabled, it won’t work for its usual shortcuts, which is inconvenient.

Common causes include changes in keyboard settings, gaming mode on some keyboards, or interference from other software.

1. Press Fn + F6 or Fn + Windows Keys

Pressing Fn + F6 can turn the Windows key on or off on many laptops and keyboards. This feature helps avoid accidentally pressing the Windows key during gaming or tasks that need full focus. By pressing Fn + F6, you turn the Windows key back on. Also, the Fn + Windows key combination is another shortcut to turn the key back on if it was accidentally turned off.

2. Press Win Lock (Only For Gaming Keyboards)

Some keyboards, especially gaming ones, have a “Win Lock” key. Pressing this key turns off the Windows key to stop accidental use during games. If the “Win Lock” is on, the Windows key won’t work. Simply press the “Win Lock” key to turn it on or off, bringing the Windows key back to normal without needing to change any software or system settings.

3. Change Registry Settings

Sometimes, changes in software or system settings can stop the Windows key from working. You can fix this by adjusting settings in the Windows Registry. By changing certain entries, you can control how the system responds to the key. Editing the registry lets you manually turn the Windows key back on, even if software or system settings had turned it off.

1. Press Windows + R, type ‘regedit’ and hit Enter.

   

2. Navigate to:

   Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced

3. Right-click on the Advanced Key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) value.
   
4. Name the new value “DisabledHotkeys” and set the value to ‘1‘.
   

4. Clean the Keyboard

If the keyboard is dirty, dust or dirt can stop the Windows key from working well. Dirt can block the key, making it not respond or stick when pressed. Cleaning the keyboard, especially around the key, can fix this by removing the dirt.

For Computer:

1. Unplug the keyboard from the computer
2. Clean the keyboard
3. Plug the keyboard back in
4. Test the Windows key

For Notebook:

1. Turn off your notebook
2. Unplug the AC/DC adapter from the notebook
3. Unplug the battery from the notebook
4. Clean the keyboard
5. Plug the battery back in
6. Plug the AC/DC adapter back in
7. Turn on your notebook
8. Test the Windows key

5. Replace the Keyboard

If none of the solutions work, the problem might be with the keyboard itself. Replacing the keyboard can quickly fix keys that are broken or not responding because of wear and tear or connection problems.