Share via

my left ctrl key stopped working

Anonymous
2024-06-03T06:56:06+00:00

Hello, I've experience a weird new issue, my left control key isn't working at all anymore, it used to actually always be on, like when I pressed t or w it opened or closed a new tab. I had an issue where my main keyboard's right ctrl worked, and my 2nd one I had plugged in the left ctrl worked. I'm right now only having on plugged in and only left isn't working. I've tried uninstalling or updating HID keyboard drivers, and done all the common methods. Help!

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Accessibility

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments

1 answer

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Munkhu 2,690 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-06-03T08:46:18+00:00

    Thank you very much for reaching out! As an Independent Advisor and fellow Microsoft user, I'm more than happy to assist you.

    It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating issue with your left Ctrl key not working. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem:

    1. Check for Physical Issues

    • External Keyboard Test: Connect a different keyboard to your computer to see if the left Ctrl key works on that one. This will help determine if the issue is with the keyboard itself or the computer.
    • Inspect the Key: Ensure that the left Ctrl key is not physically stuck or damaged.

    2. Update or Reinstall HID Keyboard Drivers

    • Update Drivers:
      1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
      2. Expand the Keyboards section.
      3. Right-click on your keyboard device and select Update driver.
      4. Choose Search automatically for drivers to let Windows find the latest driver.
    • Reinstall Drivers:
      1. In Device Manager, right-click on your keyboard device and select Uninstall device.
      2. Restart your computer, and Windows should automatically reinstall the default keyboard drivers.

    3. Run Keyboard Troubleshooter

    • Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Keyboard and run the troubleshooter.

    4. Adjust Settings in Control Panel

    • Open Control Panel and navigate to Ease of Access > Ease of Access Center > Make the keyboard easier to use. Ensure that no settings are interfering with the Ctrl key functionality.

    5. Check for Windows Updates

    • Ensure your system is up to date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking Check for updates. Install any pending updates and restart your computer.

    6. Reset BIOS to Default

    • Turn off your computer and turn it back on while repeatedly pressing the F10 key to enter the BIOS setup menu.
    • Press F9 to load the BIOS default settings and then F10 to save and exit. This can sometimes resolve keyboard issues.

    7. Use System File Checker

    • Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command sfc /scannow to check and fix any corrupted system files that might be causing the issue.

    8. Test with Another USB Port or Device

    • Try plugging your keyboard into a different USB port on your computer. If the issue persists, try connecting the keyboard to another computer to see if the problem follows the keyboard or stays with the original computer.

    If none of these steps resolve the issue, it might be worth considering that the keyboard itself could be faulty, especially if the problem persists across different devices. In that case, replacing the keyboard might be the best solution.

    Please feel free to reach out if you require any additional assistance. I'm here to help!

    7 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments