Windows key not working

Question

Hi, Recently my Dell laptop is facing issue with the Windows key not working. the Message is " the Windows key is not working currently. We will fix it next time you log in".

Can someone help me with the solution?

Answer 1

Hi,

To better help you and guide you to the right solution, could you please check and confirm the following details?

1. When you click the Windows icon on the Start menu, does it work?
2. Are you using a laptop’s built in keyboard? Also, what is the make and model of your device?

In the search bar, type MSINFO32 and press Enter. Please share a screenshot of that window.

1. Let’s test it further. If possible, connect another external keyboard and check if the Windows key works there.

Answer 2

Try the following steps in order.

1. Check the keyboard hardware

• If using a USB keyboard, unplug it, wait a few seconds, then plug it back in.
• Try a different USB port.
• If using a wireless keyboard, reset/re-pair it and check/replace batteries.
• If using a USB hub, plug the keyboard directly into the laptop instead of the hub.

2. Reset a stuck modifier key If the Windows key stopped working after unplugging/undocking a keyboard or similar action, Windows might think a key is still held down.

• Press the Windows key once.
• If unsure which key is stuck, press Ctrl, Shift, Alt, and the Windows key each once.
• If available, open the on‑screen keyboard (for example, via mouse or touch) and tap the Windows key there; this can reset the physical keyboard state.
• Restart the laptop if the key is still not responding.

3. Power cycle and reconnect

• Shut down the laptop completely (not just sleep).
• Disconnect all external devices (USB keyboard, mouse, hubs, docks).
• Power it back on and test the built‑in keyboard Windows key.

4. Run basic device checks

• Make sure there is no dirt or debris under the Windows key.
• If the key still does not work but other keys do, test with an external keyboard. If the Windows key works on an external keyboard, the built‑in keyboard may be faulty and might need service.

If none of these steps restore the Windows key and the message continues to appear every sign‑in, backing up data and performing a Windows reset or contacting Dell support for hardware diagnostics would be the next steps.

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References:

• Mouse and keyboard problems in Windows
• Keyboard doesn’t work right after unplug or undock and then reconnecting