Is the Number Pad Not Working on Windows 11? Here’s How to Fix It

If you use your number pad to quickly enter numbers you’ll miss it when it stops working. However, there are ways to get it working again on Windows 11.

As such, let’s explore how you can fix a malfunctioning number pad on Windows 11, alongside a quick replacement trick if you don’t have the time or patience to fix the number pad now.

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1. Turn On Num Lock

If you notice your keyboard does some weird things such as scrolling up and down instead of writing numbers, the num pad is disabled. The quickest way to enable it is to press theNum Lockkey. Usually, keyboards come with a small light for special keys such asNum LockorCaps Lock. If the light is on, your number pad is enabled.

If you notice the keys don’t work as usual, and you feel some resistance when pressing it, it may be time toclean your keyboard.

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If there’s nothing wrong with the key itself, move on to the next solutions.

2. Turn Off the Mouse Keys

If you’ve enabled the mouse keys feature on your Windows 11 computer, you can use the numeric keys to control your cursor. And while this is a good option to enable whenyour mouse is malfunctioning, it will stop you from using the number pad as usual.

Here is how you can disable mouse keys:

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3. Run the Keyboard Troubleshooter

If a malfunctioning number pad isn’t the only problem regarding your keyboard, you should run the Windows keyboard troubleshooter to get your keyboard working as usual. Here is how you can do it:

Once it finishes the troubleshooting process, Windows will notify you about the detected problems and suggest solutions to fix it.

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4. Update the Keyboard Drivers

There’s a chance your keyboard’s number pad isn’t working because of an outdated, corrupt, or incompatible keyboard drive. If you’re using an external keyboard, you could download the latest driver version from the producer’s website, or you can use Device Manager.

Windows 11 will now look for a verified driver version and install it.

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5. Edit the Windows Registry

Maybe a third-party app changed your system settings, and now you’re able to’t use the number pad. In this case, editing the registry should fix the problem.

6. Use the Virtual Keyboard

If you couldn’t get the number pad working, you can use Windows 11 virtual keyboard as a replacement. To launch it, press theCtrl + Windows key + Okeyboard shortcut.

If this doesn’t work, you can open it from the Settings menu. Go toAccessibility > Keyboardand turn on the toggle next toOn-screen keyboard.

By default, the virtual keyboard doesn’t include the number pad. To enable it, clickOptionsand check theTurn on numeric key padoption.

If you’re looking for a virtual keyboard with more customizing options, you could install afree virtual keyboardcompatible with Windows 11.

Get the Num Pad Working Again

With these quick tips, you should get the number pad working again. To avoid any future problems, don’t go too crazy when it comes to remapping your keyboard.

If nothing worked, and you still can’t use the number pad, you might have to take your laptop to a professional service or shop for a new external keyboard.

If tactile switches and portability are crucial to your typing or gaming experience, it’s time to invest in a wireless mechanical keyboard.

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