Windows Key Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It

Is your PC’s Windows key not working? A problematic Windows key can be very frustrating, especially for those who rely on shortcut keys most of the time. Windows keys are commonly used for operating different functions. Whether you have to find tasks from the Start Menu or have to perform shortcuts through the key, the Windows key is frequently used. There can be several reasons for why it is not functioning, such as debris buildup, a sticky or physically damaged key. Here are some common problems that cause problematic Windows keys along with their solutions!

Common Reasons Why Windows Key Stops Working?

Due to frequent use, your Windows key may get physical damage. Here are some common conditions for a non-working Windows key:

Physical Damage

If your Windows key doesn’t work, it can be due to physical damage. Often, debris or dirt gets stuck in the keys, creating a barrier to their proper functioning. A broken or forcefully pressed Windows key also stops responding.

How to Fix it?

Clean the Windows key properly. Ensure there are no dirt or dust particles inside or near the key. Particles stuck inside become a barrier and resist functioning. You can also remove the keycap to clean it properly. The most effective way to remove dirt from your keyboard is using compressed air.

Sticky Keys

Sticky keys can be the reason your Windows key does not work. Sticky keys mean “Disables Keys”. In many systems, there is an option of sticky keys, which means you cannot press two or more keys at the same time. When sticky keys are enabled, they may interfere with normal key functions, including the Windows key.

How to Fix it?

Click the shift button five times at once to check the sticky key setting. Disable the sticky key option and observe the working.

System Glitch

Sometimes, functional keys like “Windows key” stop responding due to system glitches. System glitches are temporary malfunctions in your operating system that cause some keys, including the Windows key, to stop responding. System glitches may occur due to overloaded memory, bugs, or viruses that slow down the keyboard’s functioning.

How to Fix it?

Restart your computer. If it still doesn’t work, try reinstalling keyboard drivers. If that still doesn’t help, you may consider reinstalling Windows.

How to Fix Windows Keys Functioning?

If your system’s Windows key is not working, then you must find out the cause of the problem. Here are some common and most practical ways of fixing Windows key functioning:

Restart Your Computer

Restarting the computer helps fix temporary glitches in the system and closes all open dialogues. When you restart, the processor and memory are reset, providing a fresh start for the system. While it doesn’t completely reset Windows, it can help resolve minor issues.

Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

All the peripheral devices connected to the system have separate drivers. Check if the drivers are installed and working properly. A faulty driver can prevent the keyboard from functioning correctly. Reinstalling the drivers leads to a fully functional driver. You can reinstall the keyboard drivers through the following steps:

• Open Device Manager by right-clicking on the start button.
• Choose the keyboard section and expand it.
• Right-click on your keyboard and select “Update Driver”.
• If updating doesn’t work, choose Uninstall Device, then restart your computer to reinstall the drivers.

Check for Windows Updates

Another reason the Windows key does not work is outdated Windows. A bug, a virus, or an update requirement can also cause keyboard issues. Check for the Windows update. 

• Updating Windows fixes bugs and glitches, and can lead to the proper functioning of the keyboard buttons.
• Updating Windows ensures the installation of the latest drivers regulating the compatibility and performance of the keyboard.

Ways to Update Windows

• Go to Settings.
• Click on the Update & Security tab.
• Click the Windows Update check for updates and install if any available updates.
• Restart your computer after the updates are installed.

Check Your Keyboard Layout Settings

Sometimes faulty layout settings, wrong time and date, or language settings can also be the reasons behind the Windows key not working. You can check your keyboard layout settings by:

• Open the settings.
• Click on Time & Language.
• Check the preferred Languages, and ensure that your desired language and keyboard layout are selected.
• Check the date and time, ensuring their accuracy.
• Restart the system.

Replace the Keyboard

If you still have the same problem after refreshing, restarting, and reinstalling the drivers, consider replacing your device. Connect another keyboard and see if the “Windows key” of the new one works properly. This will help you find the real problem behind the unresponsive Windows key.

Reinstall Windows

Reinstalling Windows can fix significant problems with your computer. It resets the system but keeps your files and settings, if done correctly. However, it’s a more complex solution and should only be used as a last resort.

How to Determine Why the Windows Key Is Not Working (Hardware or Software Issue)?

If your Windows key not working, you may wonder if it’s a hardware or software problem. Follow these simple steps to find out what the issue is:

Use a Different Keyboard: The quickest way to troubleshoot is by plugging in a different keyboard to your computer. If the Windows key works on the new keyboard, it’s likely a hardware issue with the original keyboard.

Try the Virtual Keyboard: You can also use the virtual keyboard. To enable it, go to Settings. Then, click on Ease of Access and select Keyboard. If the Windows key works here, it means there is a hardware issue. 

If Still Not Working: If the new keyboard and virtual keyboard do not work, it’s likely a software issue. This could be due to outdated drivers or system glitches.

Conclusion

Keyboards Windows key often stops working due to debris building, physical damage, a faulty device, or pending system updates. Refreshing or restarting your system will help you resolve the problem. Update the keyboard driver and check for Windows updates. If nothing works, consider replacing your device to find out the problem. Always keep your keyboard clean, check the layout of the keyboard, and date and time settings, because false operations also cause the devices to become unresponsive.