Function (Fn) keys – F1, F2, F3, etc., come in handy for those who are in dire need of shortcuts on their keyboards. Laptops are usually equipped with such keys but desktop keyboards, especially the gaming ones, are no stranger to these kinds. When the function keys are not working, we would not be able to use these shortcuts.
It seems that some users have been facing an issue where the Function (Fn) keys not working. These are either some driver-related issues or are caused due to the updates stopping some programs from running. Since there are a lot of laptop brands, the troubleshoot specifics might vary, but the generalized troubleshooting techniques don’t differ drastically. So, what are the steps that can help you get rid of this problem?
Function keys not working
1] Run the Hardware troubleshooter
Try running the Hardware Troubleshooter. Not that it will make much difference, but there’s that chance that this might fix the issue automatically. Windows Updates are known to stir up compatibility issues in older devices and, if that is the case here, running the hardware troubleshoot program will help you.
To do this, follow these steps:
1] Press Win + I to open the Settings window.
2] Look for “Update and Security” and open it.
3] Select “Troubleshoot” from the left panel and expand the “Hardware and Devices.”
4] Run the troubleshooter and see if the keys are working.
Read: Function key for Brightness not working in Windows
2] Update your laptop drivers
You can find the latest Function (Fn) key drivers on the official site of the manufacturer. Or, in case your drivers are set to be updated automatically, go to the device manager and uninstall each driver for the function keys, i.e., reinstall each of the drivers respectively. In case manual driver installations are difficult for you, you can use auto driver update software where you can download each driver easily. All you have to do is choose between “Update” / “Update All” and then you are all set. You may also use AMD Driver Autodetect or Intel Driver Update Utility.
3] Change settings on Mobility Center for Dell systems
Windows Mobility Center is there by default on most laptops. However, Dell systems have an extra setting for the function key row, and we can change the settings. To do so, follow these simple steps:
1] Press Windows key + S. Go on to Search for “Window Mobility Center”. After opening the application, look for the “Function Key Row.”
2] Now, click on the drop-down arrow and select “Function Key.”
3] Click on “Apply” to save the necessary changes and close the application.
In case none of these troubleshooting techniques work, then, by all means, visit the service center since there is a chance of this being a hardware related issue.
4] Solution for VAIO users
For people who still use VAIO, you should know that after each update the VAIO event service stops working. This solution is specially targeted for those users only. To turn that service on in case it is turned off, follow these steps:
1] Press Windows key + R, type “services.msc”, and then hit “run.”
2] A tab will open with a list of running services. In that list, look for “VAIO Event Service.”
3] Right-click on it and go to its properties.
4] Now, you have to turn its start-up type as automatic and, in case it does show that option, then simply start the service and then change its start-up type.
Now, check if the function keys are working or not.
If none of those mentioned above steps work, you might have to consult a hardware professional to get the keyboard fixed or replaced.
Read next: Change Function key behavior in Dell laptops.
