How to fix the function keys on a Dell computer

⚡ Fast fix

• Fn keys not working? Press Fn + Esc to toggle Function Lock on or off.
• Wrong function? Check BIOS/UEFI settings to switch between media keys and standard F1–F12.
• Keyboard glitch? Restart your Dell™ computer to reset input settings.
• Still not responding? Update keyboard drivers in Device Manager.

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Function, or Fn, keys—those handy shortcuts for controlling your laptop's features—can sometimes become unresponsive or behave unexpectedly. If you're having issues with your Dell® laptop's function keys, you’ve come to the right place.

Why stress over device drama? Our experts at uBreakiFix® by Asurion have seen it all, from full-on screen repair to fast fixes for broken touchpads. Here’s what to do when your Dell laptop’s function keys aren’t working.

How to fix Dell function key problems

If your Dell laptop's function keys aren't working as expected, it's time to troubleshoot. Our experts have put together step-by-step solutions to common issues with the Fn keys.

Check Fn lock settings

The first and easiest step is to check whether the Fn lock is on. On most Dell laptops, you can turn the Fn lock on and off by pressing the Fn key + Esc key. If the function keys are locked, this will solve the problem.

Try this combination of keys, then try changing the brightness of the screen by pressing Fn + F7.

Test the keyboard in Safe Mode

Booting your Dell computer in Safe Mode helps identify if a third-party app or driver is causing the function keys to malfunction. Safe Mode only loads essential programs, allowing you to troubleshoot without interference. If the function keys work in this mode, it’s likely an external app or driver issue that can be resolved by disabling or uninstalling conflicting software.

Restart the computer

Sometimes, a hard reset can resolve many hardware and software issues. This kind of reset won’t erase any of your data, but you will want to save any documents or files you’re currently working on. When you’re all set, use these steps to complete that reset:

1. Click the Start button from the desktop.
2. Select the Power icon > Restart.
3. Once your laptop restarts, test the function keys again.

Check for software updates

Outdated system software can cause function keys to stop working. Updating your computer may be the key to restoring function to those buttons.

1. Select Start from the desktop.
2. Click Settings > Windows update > Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates, and restart your laptop.

Update the keyboard drivers

Outdated or unavailable keyboard drivers are often behind malfunctioning function keys on Dell laptops. By updating your keyboard drivers, you can resolve these issues, making your function keys responsive once again.

Perform a factory reset

If other methods fail, consider a factory reset. Performing a factory reset on your Dell laptop can resolve persistent issues with the function keys, but it's a significant step that restores the system to its original factory settings—not only your custom settings but also your files will be lost.

Because this will erase all data on your laptop, you should back up important files first. When you’ve backed up your data, follow these steps to factory reset your Dell computer:

1. Click Start from the desktop.
2. Click Settings > Systems > Recovery.
3. Select Reset PC, then follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

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FAQ

Why aren’t my function keys working on my Dell computer?

They may be locked to media controls. Press Fn + Esc to toggle Function Lock, or check BIOS settings.

How do I switch between function keys and media keys?

Use Fn + Esc or change the setting in BIOS under Function Key Behavior.

Do I need to press Fn every time?

Only if Function Lock is off. Turn it on to use F1–F12 without holding Fn.

Can drivers affect function keys?

Yes. Outdated or corrupted keyboard drivers can cause issues—update them in Device Manager.

What if my function keys still don’t work?

It could be a hardware issue with the keyboard. Try an external keyboard to test.