In this informative blog, we will talk about how to enable the Fn key on a laptop. A laptop’s Fn (Function) key is a special key used with other keys to perform specific actions or functions. By default, the Fn key is usually enabled on laptops, but there are cases where it may be disabled or not functioning properly.
Enabling the Fn key on a laptop typically involves accessing the laptop’s BIOS settings or keyboard settings and toggling the Fn key option to “Enabled.” The steps to enable the Fn key may vary depending on the laptop brand and model, so it’s important to consult the laptop’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for detailed instructions.
Once the Fn key is enabled, you can use it with other keys to perform various functions, such as adjusting the volume, brightness, or screen orientation.
What is the Purpose of Locking and Unlocking the Fn Key?
When used in conjunction with the Fn key, the F1-F12 keys can carry out a supplementary operation in addition to the behavior that is normally associated with them. If you wish to use the alternative Function, you must keep pressing the Fn key during the process. Locking the Fn key will permanently enable it, which may be done to make things easier for yourself. You may unlock the Fn key again if you ever decide to utilize the preset functions.
Read More: How to Play Tanks on iMessage Games on IOS
How to Enable the Fn Key on a Laptop
In the following, you will find a list of how the Fn key may be locked or unlocked in Windows.
By Using The Keyboard
On certain keyboards, pressing Esc will do the same function as pressing the Function padlock key. If this is the case with your keyboard, you will see a little padlock symbol next to the Esc key.
Simply pressing the Fn and Esc keys simultaneously will lock the Fn key in place. When the lock indicator glows, the Fn key has been locked successfully. Open the door by pressing both keys together one more.
Access The BIOS System in Windows
Altering the BIOS settings of your computer will also allow you to modify the settings of your computer’s hardware. The following is the procedure to follow to lock or unlock the Fn key using the BIOS:
- You may go to the Recovery menu in Windows by consulting our tutorial on the Windows Recovery Environment (for more details, please visit that tutorial).
- Go to Troubleshoot, and then click on Advanced Options once you’re there.
- After selecting UEFI Firmware Settings from the menu, choose the Restart button.
- After the machine has been restarted, the BIOS will become active.
- Go to the System Configuration area and choose the Action Key Mode from the dropdown menu.
- Turn off Action Key Mode if it’s on.
- Alternatively, you may access the Function key behavior by clicking the Advanced tab.
- Choose the “Function key” option from the menu to secure it.
- To save the changes, hit the F10 key, and when prompted by the User Account Control prompt, click the Yes button.
By using the Windows Mobility Center
In the third and last approach, we will use the Windows Mobility Center, which gives you access to standard settings like the volume and the brightness of your screen. You may not be successful using this approach if the Function Key Row part of the Mobility Center is missing from your device.
- To go forward, continue in the following manner:
- In Windows Search, type Windows Mobility Center and click the Open button.
- Find the part labeled Function Key Row, and then expand the dropdown beneath it.
To lock the key, choose the option to lock the Function key from the dropdown menu. Select the Multimedia key option if you want to unlock it.
After doing this, you should be able to utilize the function keys without hitting the Fn key. If you have decided that you do not want to use the Fn key anymore and believe disabling it would benefit you, you may utilize the KeyTweak app to do this task on your device. For more details on KeyTweak, look at our tutorial that explains how to deactivate certain keys on your keyboard while using Windows.
FAQ’s
Why is the Fn key on my keyboard not working?
Most of the time, the function keys ceased functioning because someone inadvertently hit the key that locks the function keys. Because the Fn lock key affects other toggle keys, such as the Caps Lock key or the Num Lock key, it is simple to determine whether or not the Fn keys are locked. Locate the Fn key, the F lock key, and the F Mode key on your keyboard.
How can I activate the Fn key on my HP device so that it stays active?
To access the more advanced features of the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), choose the Advanced menu. Choose the Device Configuration option from the menu. To enable or disable the Fn Key switch, use the arrow keys on the right or left side of the keyboard. To save the configuration and restart the computer, press the F10 key on your keyboard.
If the Fn key does not function, what other options do I have to activate the keyboard light?
As soon as possible, begin hitting the F2 key once per second (if the machine boots into Windows, shut it down and try again). A plus symbol will appear next to System Configuration; click on it. Choose the Keyboard Illumination option. Note: The keyboard does not have a backlight if the Keyboard Illumination option is not on your computer’s settings menu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, enabling the Fn key on a laptop involves accessing the BIOS or keyboard settings and toggling the Fn key option to “Enabled.” This key is important for performing specific laptop functions, such as adjusting the volume or screen brightness. If the Fn key is not functioning properly or has been disabled, consult the laptop’s user manual or manufacturer’s website for detailed instructions on how to enable it.
