How to Fix Function Keys Not Working on Laptop

The Function keys (F1-F12) on the Laptop are designed to perform specific actions such as adjusting volume, brightness, enabling Wi-Fi, and managing media playback. However, sometimes these keys stop working, making it difficult for users to access their shortcuts. This issue can be caused by incorrect system settings, outdated drivers, software conflicts, or a malfunctioning keyboard. This article explores, various troubleshooting methods to fix the function keys not working on laptop.

How to fix Function keys not working properly

If your laptop’s function keys (F1-F12) aren’t working, the most common cause is an accidentally enabled “Fn Lock” or “Function Lock”. Other possibilities include software issues, outdated drivers, or even hardware problems.

• Outdated or Corrupt Keyboard Drivers – Incompatible drivers can cause function keys to malfunction.
• Windows Updates or Software Conflicts – Recent updates or third-party software can interfere with keyboard functionality.
• Incorrect BIOS/UEFI Settings – Function key behavior can be altered in BIOS.
• Hardware Issues – A damaged keyboard or loose internal connection may cause key malfunctions.
• Keyboard Filter Keys Enabled – Accessibility settings may block function key input.

Check the Fn Lock Key

Many laptops have an Fn Lock key that locks or unlocks the function key behavior. If the function key lock is enabled, the F1-F12 keys may not work properly.

• Locate the Fn Lock key on your keyboard (often found as Esc, Shift, or F1-F12 with a small lock icon).
• Press Fn + Fn Lock Key together to toggle the function key mode.
• Test the function keys to see if they are working correctly.

Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

Most of the time, Outdated or corrupt drivers are the primary reason why the function key not working. Updating or reinstalling the keyboard driver ensures compatibility with Windows 10 and corrects any driver-related malfunctions.

• Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
• Expand Keyboards, right-click on your keyboard, and select Update driver.
• Choose Search automatically for drivers and let Windows update it.
• If updating doesn’t work, select Uninstall device, then restart your laptop.
• Windows will automatically reinstall the keyboard driver upon reboot.

Also you can visit the Laptop manufacturer’s website and search for the latest Windows 10 drivers available for the Keyboard and then install it by following the instructions given in the website.

Change Function Key Behavior in BIOS/UEFI

Some laptops allow users to change function key behavior through BIOS or UEFI settings. If the BIOS setting is incorrectly configured, function keys may default to multimedia functions instead of standard F1-F12 functions.

• Restart your laptop and press the BIOS key (usually F2, F10, F12, or Del) when the manufacturer logo appears.
• Navigate to the Advanced or Configuration tab.
• Look for Function Key Behavior or Action Keys Mode.
• Change it to Function Key First if it’s set to Multimedia Key First.
• Save the settings and exit BIOS.
• Test the function keys after booting into Windows.

Disable Filter Keys in Windows Settings

Filter Keys is a Windows feature designed to block repeated keystrokes. Although it’s actually quite unlikely this feature will block the function keys on your keyboard, it’s possible. we recommend temporarily disable this feature and check it may help.

1. Go to Control Panel and open Ease of Access Center.
2. Scroll down and select Make the keyboard easier to use option.
3. Scroll down and locate Filter Keys option. Make sure that Turn on Filter Keys option is not checked.
4. After turning off this option, click Apply and OK to save changes.

Run the Keyboard Troubleshooter

Microsoft includes built-in troubleshooter to fix different problems including keyboard-related issues. Let’s run the troubleshooter and let Windows detect and fix common keyboard malfunctions automatically.

• Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Click Additional Troubleshooters.
• Select Keyboard and click Run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.
• Restart your laptop and check if the function keys are working.

Change settings on Mobility Center

Windows Mobility Center is there by default on most laptops. However, Dell systems have an extra setting for the function key row, and we can change the settings. To do so, follow these simple steps:

1] Press Windows key + S. Go on to Search for “Window Mobility Center”. After opening the application, look for the “Function Key Row.”

2] Now, click on the drop-down arrow and select “Function Key.”

3] Click on “Apply” to save the necessary changes and close the application.

Disable Conflicting Third-Party Software

Some third-party apps, especially keyboard or gaming utilities, may interfere with function keys. Disabling these conflicting software helps restore normal keyboard functionality.

• Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
• Go to the Startup tab and disable any unnecessary applications.
• Restart your laptop and test the function keys.

Again if the issue started after a recent update or software installation, restoring Windows to a previous state may help.