laptop keys are not working

aruna dalai 0 Reputation points
2026-10-08T17:24:22.71+00:00

my laptop keys are not working. its working fine when i use external keyboard

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Input and language
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  1. AI answer

    2026-10-08T17:24:40.21+00:00

    Since the laptop keyboard fails but an external keyboard works, the issue is likely with the built-in keyboard hardware or its connection.

    Try these checks in order:

    1. Clean the keyboard.
      • Check for dirt or debris stuck under the non-working keys.
      • Use compressed air to blow dust out from between the keys.
    2. Check Windows keyboard accessibility settings.
      • In Windows 10: Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard.
      • Turn Sticky Keys and Filter Keys on or off as needed to test whether they are affecting input.
    3. Confirm the laptop keyboard is the problem.
      • Since the external keyboard works, that points to the built-in keyboard rather than general Windows input.
      • If needed, test whether the same keys fail consistently and inspect for physical damage.
    4. Check for hardware failure.
      • If keys are cracked, damaged, have fallen off, or continue to repeat/drop input, that indicates hardware failure and the keyboard may need repair or replacement.
    5. If the problem started after updates or software changes, install Windows updates and check keyboard drivers from the laptop manufacturer.

    If the built-in keyboard still does not work after cleaning and checking settings, repair or replacement of the laptop keyboard is the likely next step.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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  2. Hendrix-V 19,940 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-10-09T05:20:15.9666667+00:00

    Hi aruna dalai,

    Since the external keyboard works normally, please try one additional check that hasn't been mentioned yet:

    • Restart the laptop and enter its BIOS/UEFI setup using the key specified by your laptop manufacturer.
    • Once there, check whether the built-in keyboard responds, for example by using the arrow keys.
    • If the keyboard also does not respond outside Windows, I recommend contacting the laptop manufacturer for further hardware diagnostics.

    If it works normally in BIOS/UEFI but stops responding after Windows starts, please let us know. That would help narrow the troubleshooting toward Windows or the keyboard driver.

    I hope this helps identify where the problem is coming from.

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  3. Dio Xavier 297.1K Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2026-10-08T17:37:52.57+00:00

    Hello,

    Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

    Good afternoon. First, check if there is a key or key combination that locks the keyboard; this is usually activated by pressing Fn+F* (the key with a keyboard icon).

    If it is activated and the keys work using an external keyboard, the issue is likely a hardware defect. In this case, it is recommended to take the computer to a service center for an on-site inspection and a possible keyboard replacement.

    Good luck, and please let us know the outcome.

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