Windows button suddenly not working/Scancode Map file missing

Question

One day both of my windows buttons stopped working (both left and right) No other key is malfunctioning. None of the commands (Win + shift + s, Win + V, ect) are working.

I recently went into Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout to delete my SCANCODE MAP file, just to find that there is no SCANCODE_MAP file. I never deleted it. Nor even new about this file til now

Answer 1

Hello CollinAzrael,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

It seems that you are having an issue with keyboard function. That is very annoying. I will do my best to help you. Here are some of my suggestions:

1. Make sure the Windows key isn't locked. Some keyboards include a Windows Lock key with an indicator that will disable the Windows key, similar to the Num Lock key. It usually has the Windows logo with a lock next to it. Make sure the indicator light on this key is off. Some gaming keyboards also let you press the Function (Fn) key and a function key (like F12) to enable or disable the Windows key. Refer to your keyboard user manual to determine if your dashboard has that keyboard shortcut feature. Repeating the keyboard shortcut will enable the Windows key.
2. Make sure to disable Sticky Keys. This feature helps people with disabilities who may struggle with pressing two keys at the same time. When enabled, Sticky Keys lets you press a Modifier Key (like Shift or Windows), and that key stays enabled until you press any other key. Disabling Sticky Keys will resolve abnormal Windows Key behavior. The most likely behavior you'll see if Sticky Keys is the problem is that other keys will act like you're holding down the Windows key even when you aren't. For example, pressing only "L" on the keyboard will lock your computer.
3. Perform hardware troubleshooting on your keyboard. Start by swapping keyboards (preferably with a newer keyboard) to see if you still have the same issue on your computer with a different keyboard. Clean the keyboard well to make sure dirt or grime isn't blocking the Windows key. It frequently happens with mechanical keyboards. Check for damage like frayed cords and cracked or loose keys. Even if you find your Windows key failure is hardware-related, don't give up. There are things you may be able to do to fix a broken keyboard.
4. If you're using a wireless keyboard, replace the batteries. Batteries with low power often lead to unpredictable keyboard behaviors, including intermittent Windows key failures. Make sure the wireless USB dongle that came with the keyboard hasn't fallen out or is loose.
5. Turn off Filter Keys. Filter Keys is a Windows 10 feature that ignores keys you press multiple times. There is a known bug that causes unforeseen issues with many keyboards. Disable it by pressing the right Shift key for 8 seconds. A message will appear on the screen. Select Disable this keyboard shortcut in Ease of Access keyboard settings. Make sure you've set the Use Filter Keys toggle to Off. If you enabled this, it could be the cause of your Windows key not working. If Use Filter Keys was already disabled, then that wasn't the problem.
6. Disable Windows 10 Game Mode. It's a feature added to Windows 10 to make games run more efficiently and reliably. However, Game Mode optimization settings can sometimes cause unexpected keyboard behaviors, like the Windows key not working. You can also disable Game Mode on the Windows 10 Game Bar if you've enabled it. Many gaming keyboards also have keyboard shortcuts that will enable or disable Game Mode. Check the keyboard user manual to learn more.
7. Update your Windows 10 hardware drivers. An outdated or corrupt keyboard driver could result in unexpected behavior, like the Windows key not working. Ensuring you have the latest driver could resolve these issues.

I hope it can solve your problem.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation.

Best Regards,

William.S- MSFT