A routine software update can sometimes introduce unexpected changes to your computer’s behavior, including issues with keyboard functions. One of the most common complaints after a Windows update is the misbehavior of essential keys, particularly the Windows and Alt keys. These keys are fundamental for navigation, opening the Start menu, and utilizing shortcuts that improve productivity. If you find that your Windows and Alt keys aren’t functioning as expected after an update, don’t panic—there are effective methods to restore them to their default settings.
Here’s how to reset your windows and alt key switched after a software update and get back to a smooth, trouble-free experience.
Why Do Keys Stop Working After a Software Update?
After a software update, there could be multiple reasons why your Windows and Alt keys stop functioning properly. For instance, updates may overwrite custom key mappings, introduce compatibility issues with drivers, or change system settings that affect keyboard functionality. In some cases, the keyboard layout might even switch, causing certain keys to behave differently.
While these issues are common after updates, they can typically be fixed with a few simple steps.
Method 1: Check Keyboard Layout Settings
One of the first things to check after a software update is the keyboard layout settings. Sometimes, updates may inadvertently change the layout or language settings, which can cause confusion with key assignments.
1. Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and go to Settings (the gear icon).
2. Navigate to Time & Language: In the Settings window, select Time & Language and then click on Language in the left sidebar.
3. Check the Input Method: Under the “Preferred Languages” section, check the current input method. Ensure it’s set to your preferred language (for example, English – United States) and the correct keyboard layout (like QWERTY).
4. Change Input Method if Needed: If the wrong layout is selected, click Options and select the correct keyboard layout from the list.
A mismatched input method could easily be the cause of your Windows and Alt keys malfunctioning. Adjusting these settings should quickly resolve the issue if this is the root cause.
Method 2: Reinstall Keyboard Drivers
Another potential culprit after a software update is a corrupted or outdated keyboard driver. Windows updates can sometimes interfere with the functionality of device drivers, leading to issues with certain keys.
1. Open Device Manager: Press Win + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
2. Locate Keyboards: Expand the Keyboards section in Device Manager and find your keyboard listed there.
3. Update Driver: Right-click on your keyboard and select Update driver. You can choose to search for an updated driver automatically, or you can download and install the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website.
4. Uninstall and Reinstall the Driver: If updating doesn’t resolve the issue, try uninstalling the driver and restarting your computer. Upon reboot, Windows should reinstall the default driver.
By reinstalling or updating the driver, you ensure that your keyboard is running the latest software, which may fix any issues caused by a previous driver conflict.
Method 3: Reset the Keyboard Mapping Using Third-Party Software
If your Windows and Alt keys have been remapped due to a software update, you can use third-party tools like SharpKeys to restore them to their original functions. These tools allow you to visually remap keys and reset them to their default behavior.
1. Download and Install SharpKeys: SharpKeys is a free tool that allows you to remap or reset keys on your keyboard.
2. Launch SharpKeys: Open the program and look for any changes that may have been made to the Windows or Alt keys.
3. Remove Custom Mappings: If the Windows or Alt keys have been reassigned, select them in SharpKeys and remove the custom mappings.
4. Save and Reboot: After clearing the mappings, save the changes and reboot your system for the new settings to take effect.
SharpKeys is an easy-to-use solution to restore your keys to their original functions if they were inadvertently remapped during the update process.
Method 4: Use the System Restore Feature
If none of the above methods work, you can try using Windows’ System Restore feature to revert your computer to a state before the software update. This will undo any changes made to your system, including potential keyboard issues caused by the update.
1. Open Control Panel: Search for Control Panel in the Start menu and open it.
2. Go to System and Security: In the Control Panel, click System and Security, then select System.
3. Select System Protection: On the left side, click System Protection.
4. Click System Restore: Select System Restore, and choose a restore point from before the update that caused the issue.
5. Follow the Wizard: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.
This method will take your system back to its previous configuration, potentially fixing any issues with the Windows and Alt keys.
Conclusion
While a software update can sometimes disrupt the functionality of your Windows and Alt keys, it’s not difficult to reset them back to normal. By checking your keyboard layout, reinstalling drivers, using remapping tools like SharpKeys, or even performing a system restore, you can quickly resolve the issue and get back to using your keyboard the way it was intended. With these simple fixes, you can enjoy a seamless experience even after updates that may have initially caused problems.