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Why are Shift + Ctrl + Alt keys not working?

Anonymous
2024-11-28T16:53:14+00:00

One day the 'shift and alt' key stopped working on my laptop keyboard. Then, the 'ctrl' key stopped'. I connected an external keyboard, and the 'shift' key works but the 'alt and ctrl' keys don't work. Also, while reading other posts about using the 'Windows key' + a letter (e.g. Q, X, R), the 'Windows key' no longer works. I tried uninstalling the keyboard via Device Manager, Sticky Keys is off, and ran a few other troubleshooting tips. Any ideas??? I am running Windows 11 and all updates are current.

UPDATE: I reset the PC (version: Keep my files) and the keys still don't work.

UPDATE: I reset the PC again - but this time the full version and the keys still do NOT work.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Input and language

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  1. Miguel Molina O 5,800 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2024-11-28T21:07:27+00:00

    Hi I'm Miguel O. I'm sorry to hear you are having problems, I hope I can help you today!

    One of the possibilities that could be causing the error could be the hardware which in case it is the hardware can't be fixed with some configuration and you will have to change the keyboard.

    First we will try some solutions that in case it is the software that is the problem, with this we will be able to fix it.

    Derrick19 - MSFT

    Microsoft Agent | Moderator posted a solution for a user who had a similar problem:

    “Keyboard Troubleshooter - Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can help troubleshoot keyboard related issues. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional Troubleshooters > Keyboard. Follow the on-screen instructions to allow Windows to detect and attempt to fix any problems.

    External keyboard test: If you have an external keyboard, try connecting it to your computer. If the external keyboard works without problems, the problem could be in the laptop's keyboard hardware.

    Clean the keyboard: Sometimes dust or dirt under the keys can cause problems. Carefully cleaning the keyboard can solve this. However, be careful not to damage the keys.

    Boot in safe mode: Booting the computer in safe mode can help determine if the problem is due to third-party software. If the keyboard works fine in safe mode, a software conflict could be the culprit. To boot into safe mode, hold down the Shift key while selecting Power > Restart from the Windows Start menu. After your PC restarts, go to Troubleshoot > advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart, then press 4 or F4 to boot into safe mode.

    Check your keyboard settings: make sure that the Sticky Keys feature is disabled. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and make sure the switch under Special Keys is disabled.

    Hardware Diagnostics: Some laptop manufacturers offer built-in hardware diagnostic tools that can check for a hardware problem with your keyboard. Consult your laptop's user's manual or support website for instructions on how to use these tools.”

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