You are here because your keyboard’s W or windows key is not working. It happens very often with computer users.
This problem does not occur out of the blue. This occurrence has several causes behind it. Also, the reasons can be software or hardware based.
Before going to the service center, you can take a few actions to solve this problem. And you have to perform them as soon as possible. You can easily change an external keyboard, but what if this happens with your laptop keyboard? No worries. I will share some practical solutions regarding the W key’s inability to work issue here.
W Key Fails To Work – Problem & Solution
Before jumping to the solutions, you need to address the problem first. Knowing about the problems will help you to solve them. Also, it will prevent further issues.
The problems that cause your keyboard key to stop working are
- Dirty keyboard or sticky keys
- Poor cable or battery connection
- Malware or viruses
- Major windows or software update
- Backdated keyboard driver
- Too much pressure on the keys
- Faulty cable or battery
- Improper input setting
These problems can cause issues with the W key and any key on your keyboard.
Checking the connections, cleaning the keyboard, replacing the cable or battery, restarting the PC, checking for malware, updating the windows, adjusting input settings, and updating the keyboard driver can solve the problem.
These solutions will solve your problems like
- The windows key not working
- Mac keyboard not responding
- The function key not working
- Gaming keyboard not working
- Keyboard key not responding
- Keys not working on Windows PC
- S key not working, etc.
Solutions Regarding Keyboard Issue
I will divide the solutions into three stages and they are initial, secondary, and final. So, you can go through it selectively rather than trying random actions.
Before going to the detailed actions, let’s have a quick look at the solutions.
| Stages | Actions |
| Initial |
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| Secondary |
|
| Final |
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Let’s see the actions in detail.
Initial Stage
When you notice your W key is not working, take this action first. These simple actions can solve the problem.
Check For Poor Connections
If you use a USB keyboard, check if the connection ports are loose. Unplug and replug the cable properly.
If you are using a wireless keyboard, unpair the Bluetooth and pair it again. This simple action can solve the issue sometimes.
Check The Key Locks
Any key may stop working if you press the Fn lock key. Accidentally pressing the Fn lock key may trigger other lock keys like Caps Lock or Num Lock.
Find Fn Lock/ F mode/ Fn key based on your device to unlock these keys. And press it one time, or press & hold it for a few seconds.
If this process fails, press the Fn and Esc keys simultaneously. This will sure unlock all the keys.
Clean The Keyboard
A dirty keyboard is responsible for a keyboard to stop working. Sometimes debris can go under any key and prevent it from responding. So, you need to keep your keyboard clean.
How To Clean The Keyboard?
Many use brushes, slime, and other DIY cleaners to clean their keyboards. But they are not 100% effective. I’m sharing three productive ways to clean your keyboard perfectly.
Cotton Buds
You can use cotton buds to clean the keyboard. The bud helps to reach narrow spaces and clean them. Using alcoholic rub enhances the process. Watch the video for the demonstration.
Compressed Air
Compressed air is also an effective cleaner. You can use Falcon Dust Compressed Duster. Nevertheless, it is user-friendly and environment-friendly. Watch the video below to learn how to use compressed air.
Vacuum Cleaner
There are many mini vacuum cleaners that are good for electronic devices. I use one of them for cleaning my keyboard. They are practical and effective too. Let’s watch a video on how to use them.
Restart Your PC
Whether you are using a PC or laptop, restarting can solve your keyboard issue. A simple restart enhances the power of the devices and troubleshoots some minor issues.
To restart your Windows PC or laptop, first, click on the Windows button. Secondly, select the Power button. Finally, press the Restart button.
Secondary Stage
If the actions of the initial stage do not work, you need to move to the secondary stage. The actions of this stage are mostly software based.
Let’s handle the software issues to fix the keyboard.
Check For Malware Or Virus
Malware or viruses can bring trouble for your keyboard too. Running a quick scan can identify if there is any malware on your PC.
Run the antivirus application on your PC and take necessary action to kill any malware or virus. You can use the default windows antivirus tool.
Also, there are some popular apps to handle malware and viruses like Malwarebytes, Avast, McAfee, and Norton.
Take the troubleshooting malware seriously. Try to do the scanning as often as possible.
Modify Keyboard Input Settings
The settings you need to check are
- Language keyboard layout
- Repeat delay setting
- Turning off Sticky & Filter keys
If you know how to perform these actions, good for you. If you have no idea about them, it’s okay. Let me show you how to perform them.
How To Fix Keyboard Language Layout?
- Open the Windows button by clicking it
- Find and open the Setting app
- Search for Time & Language option
- Click on the Language & region button
- Go under the Preferred language option
- Find your language and press the menu button beside it
- Now select the Language options button
- Enter the Keyboard section and install the keyboard’s native language layout.
How To Fix The Repeat Delay Setting?
- Press the Start button
- Go to the Control Panel
- Search for Keyboard option
- Click on Keyboard properties
- Go to the Speed option
- Adjust Repeat delay & Repeat rate
- Click Ok and Apply buttons
How To Turn Off The Filter Key & Sticky Key?
- Go to the Control panel
- Open the All Control Panel items option
- Select Ease of Access Center
- Click on Make the keyboard easier to use
- Uncheck the Turn on Sticky keys option
- Uncheck the Turn on Filter keys option
- Hit Ok and Apply button
Adjust Gaming Keyboard Setting
Facing keyboard issues is common for gamers. When you play a game, specific keys face more pressure than others. It may lead them to stop working.
For example, in games like Minecraft or World of Warcraft, the W key is used for walking or moving. So, you continuously press that key, and it may stop working.
In this case, you need to change or shit the walk button to another key. A suitable configuration of a gaming keyboard will save the keyboard from damage.
Update The Keyboard Driver
Sometimes, backdated keyboard drivers prevent keys from responding. So, you need to update your keyboard drivers as soon as possible.
- Open the Windows taskbar option
- Go to the Search button
- Find and select Device Manager
- Expand the Keyboards button
- Right click on your keyboard
- Select the Update Driver option
- Click on Search automatically for drivers
You can follow the Free driver updater to complete the actions. Microsoft support also shares how you can update your drivers.
Final Stage
If any of the actions from above did not work, the primary problem is with your hardware.
Replace The Cable Or Batteries
A faulty cable or battery can cause trouble to the keyboard. If you have a wired keyboard, try a new cable. You can buy a new cable according to your device. Also, customizing option is available.
If you have a wireless keyboard, change the batteries. You can find new batteries according to your keyboard technology easily.
Replace The Keyboard
You need to change the keyboard if a new cable or battery fails. To be more sure, borrow a keyboard from your friend. First, replace your current keyboard with your friend’s keyboard. If it works fine, then your keyboard must be faulty.
While buying a new keyboard, it is best to match the brand with your device. You can go for other brands but ensure it is compatible with your PC.
Go To The Service Center
The final option is to go to the service center. If you have a financial problem, you can fix your faulty keyboard. But I would not recommend it. A fixed keyboard can fail anytime soon.
If your laptop keyboard is faulty, you must contact the service center. For emergencies, you can connect a secondary keyboard. But you should not do it for a long time.
A faulty keyboard can cause trouble to your laptop too. So, take it to the service center and fix it as soon as possible.
People Often Ask
Why Is The Windows Key Not Working On A Mechanical Keyboard?
Due to dirt and debris, a particular key can not work on a mechanical keyboard. Malware and backdated keyboard drivers are also responsible.
Why Is The Shift W Not Working?
One possibility is that the keyboard itself is malfunctioning or damaged, which can cause certain keys to stop working properly. In this case, the keyboard may need to be repaired or replaced.
Another possibility is that there may be a software issue, such as a driver problem or a conflict with other programs running on the computer. This can sometimes be resolved by restarting the computer or updating the keyboard driver.
It is also possible that the shift key or the W key may be stuck or physically blocked, preventing them from functioning properly. In this case, gently cleaning the keyboard or removing any debris may help to resolve the issue.
How To Type Without A Physical Keyboard?
There are several ways to type without a physical keyboard, depending on the device and the situation.
One option is to use a virtual keyboard, which is a software-based keyboard that can be accessed on a touchscreen device or through a computer program. Virtual keyboards can be customized to suit individual preferences and can be used to type text, symbols, and emojis.
Another option is to use dictation software, which allows users to speak into a microphone and have their words transcribed into text. This can be particularly helpful for individuals who have difficulty typing or for situations where typing may not be practical or safe, such as while driving.
Some devices also support gesture-based typing, which allows users to input text by swiping their fingers across the screen in a specific pattern. This can be particularly useful on mobile devices where space is limited.
How Do You Fix A Dead Key?
If a key on a keyboard is not working or is “dead”, there are several potential solutions to fix the issue.
First, try cleaning the key and the area around it with compressed air or a soft cloth. Sometimes debris or dust can get lodged under the key, preventing it from working properly.
If cleaning does not work, the issue may be with the keyboard driver. Try updating the keyboard driver through the device manager or the manufacturer’s website.
If the dead key is a laptop keyboard, there may be a hardware issue with the keyboard itself. In this case, the keyboard may need to be replaced or repaired by a professional.
For a desktop keyboard, if cleaning and updating the driver do not work, the issue may be with the keyboard’s wiring or connections. Try unplugging the keyboard and plugging it back in to see if that resolves the issue.
Finally, if none of these solutions work, it may be necessary to replace the entire keyboard. This can be done by purchasing a new keyboard or by sending the device in for repairs.
How Do You Fix A Broken Key On A Laptop?
If a key on a laptop keyboard is broken, there are several potential solutions to fix the issue.
First, try removing the keycap and reattaching it. Sometimes the keycap can become dislodged or damaged, causing the key to stop working properly. Gently remove the keycap and check for any visible damage or debris. If the keycap is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
If reattaching the keycap does not work, the issue may be with the underlying mechanism of the key. In this case, the keyboard may need to be replaced or repaired. If the laptop is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer for assistance with repairs or replacement.
If the laptop is not under warranty, the keyboard can be replaced by a professional or by following a DIY guide. However, replacing a laptop keyboard can be a complex process and may require specialized tools and knowledge.
Alternatively, if the laptop has a USB port, an external keyboard can be used as a temporary solution. This can allow for continued use of the laptop while the keyboard is being repaired or replaced.
How Do I Disable the W Key?
If you need to disable the W key on your keyboard, there are several potential solutions depending on the operating system and device you are using.
On a Windows computer, you can use the built-in accessibility features to remap the W key to a different function or disable it altogether. To do this, open the Windows Control Panel and navigate to Ease of Access > Ease of Access Center > Make the keyboard easier to use. Under the “Make it easier to type” section, click on “Set up Filter Keys” and select the option to “Turn on Filter Keys”. This will enable the ability to set up a key to be ignored, including the W key.
On a Mac computer, you can use the built-in keyboard settings to remap the W key to a different function or disable it. To do this, open the Apple menu and select System Preferences > Keyboard. From here, you can click on the “Modifier Keys” button to remap or disable the W key.
If you need to disable the W key temporarily for a specific application or game, you can use third-party software or macros to remap the key. However, be cautious when downloading and using third-party software, as it can potentially be harmful or cause issues with your device.
Get Your W Key Working Again
Not only the W key, any key not responding is an irritating problem. This can happen to anyone, especially to gamers. Cleaning the keyboard, replacing the cable or battery, restarting the PC, scanning malware, adjusting input settings, and updating the keyboard driver can solve the W key not working issue.
For laptops, you can use an external keyboard for emergencies. But get the laptop with a faulty keyboard to the service center as soon as possible.
