How to Lock and Unlock the Function (Fn) Key in Windows

July 2024 ยท 3 minute read

The F1-F12 keys on the top of your keyboard can perform two functions. On their own, they perform one action, but they act differently when used with the Function (Fn) key. For the latter, you need to press the Fn key along with any function key every time you want to perform a distinct operation.

If you don't want to keep holding down the Fn key, Windows gives you the option to permanently lock it. This will allow you to utilize F1-12's secondary operations without pressing the Fn key. Below, we discuss multiple ways of locking and unlocking the Fn key in detail.

Why Should You Lock or Unlock the Fn Key?

The F1-F12 keys can perform another secondary function apart from their default behavior when used in combination with the Fn key. However, you must press the Fn key every time you want to perform the alternate function. To make it more convenient, you can lock the Fn key, which will enable it permanently.

When you want to use the default functions again, you can simply unlock the Fn key again

How to Lock and Unlock the Function Key in Windows

Below, we have listed different ways of locking and unlocking the Fn key in Windows.

1. Use the Keyboard

In several keyboards, the Esc key acts as a Function padlock key. You will notice a small padlock icon on the Esc key if that is the case for your keyboard.

To lock the Fn key, simply press the Fn key and the Esc key together. Once the lock icon lights up, the Fn key has been successfully locked. To unlock, you can press both keys together again.

2. Access the BIOS Settings

You can also change the hardware settings of your computer via the BIOS settings. Here is how you can lock or unlock the Fn key via BIOS:

  • Access the Recovery menu of Windows (see our guide on the Windows Recovery Environment for more information).
  • Head over to Troubleshoot and click on Advanced Options.
  • Click on UEFI Firmware Settings and hit Restart.
  • Once the computer restarts, the BIOS will launch.
  • Head over to the System Configuration section and choose the Action Key Mode.
  • Disable Action Key Mode.
  • Alternatively, in the Advanced tab, access the Function key behavior.
  • Choose the Function key option to lock it.
  • Click F10 to save the changes, and then click Yes in the User Account Control prompt.

    • 3. Use the Windows Mobility Center

    In the third method, we will be using the Windows Mobility Center, which allows you to access common features like brightness and volume. This method might not work for you if you do not have the Function Key Row section in the Mobility Center.

    Follow these steps to proceed:

  • Type Windows Mobility Center in Windows Search and click Open.
  • Locate the Function Key Row section and expand the dropdown under it.
  • Choose the Function key option from the dropdown to lock the key. To unlock, choose the Multimedia key option.

    • This should allow you to use the function keys without pressing the Fn key. In case you no longer want to use the Fn key and think that you will be better off disabling it, you can use the KeyTweak app to perform this action. Check out our guide on how to disable specific keys on your keyboard in Windows for more information about KeyTweak.

    Manage Your Fn Key Better on Windows

    The Fn keys improve productivity, but you can make them more convenient by enabling them permanently. The different methods above should help you make this change easily. If you do not use the Fn key often, then it is best to disable it permanently.

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