Why is the Fn Key Not Working on My Laptop and How to Fix It?

If the Fn key on your laptop has stopped working, it can limit access to essential functions like adjusting volume, screen brightness, or switching displays. Several reasons can cause this issue, and in most cases, it can be fixed relatively easily. Here, we’ll look at the main causes and how to resolve them.

1. Check Your BIOS Settings

The Fn key may be disabled at the BIOS level. To check this, restart your laptop and enter the BIOS (usually by pressing Delete, F2, or Esc during startup). Look for a section related to the keyboard settings and verify if the Fn function is enabled. This option is typically named Function Key Behavior or Action Keys Mode. If it’s disabled, try switching it on.

2. Update Keyboard Drivers

Sometimes, the issue may be related to outdated or malfunctioning drivers. Open Device Manager in Windows, locate the Keyboards section, right-click on your keyboard, and select Update driver. Installing the latest drivers for your laptop model from the manufacturer’s website might also help.

3. Use Manufacturer-Specific Utilities and Software

Some laptops require specific utilities for the Fn key to function properly. For example, ASUS laptops often need the ATK Package, while Lenovo laptops might need Lenovo Utility or Hotkey Features Integration. Check your laptop manufacturer’s website to find the required software, and ensure it’s installed and updated.

4. Check Windows Settings

In Windows 10 and Windows 11, you can also review keyboard settings. Go to Settings > Devices > Keyboard and check if there is an option related to function keys. Sometimes, you can find these options under Accessibility.

5. Hardware Issues

If none of the above solutions work, the problem may be hardware-related. In such cases, you might need to contact a service center for diagnostics and, if necessary, a keyboard replacement.