The number pad on your keyboard is a handy feature that allows you to type numbers without switching between the alphabet keys and numbers. It's a great way to avoid confusing letters with numbers if you're not used to using a computer or typing out long numbers and letters.
But sometimes, your External Keyboard number pad might malfunction or not work at all. Here are some ways to fix the number pad not working so that you can get back to being productive as soon as possible. Read on!
1. Enable Num Lock On The Keyboard
Num Lock is a dedicated key on most keyboards. You cannot use the number pad when you disable it. It is often disabled when not working with numbers to avoid accidental presses.
To enable Num Lock, press the key, which looks like a star on a keyboard, usually above or below the spacebar. This will turn off the number pad and ensure you don't accidentally press any keys by mistake.
2. Turn On The Mouse Keys
The numeric keypad can move the mouse pointer when mouse keys are enabled in Windows 11. If the Mouse on your computer stops working and you need to get some quick work done, this is the best solution.
You must disable the Mouse keys once you return to using a functional mouse on a computer.
Step 1: To open Windows Settings, press Windows + I together.
Step 2: Navigate to the Accessibility menu.
Step 3: From the menu, select Mouse and disable the Mouse keys.
3. Clean Number Keys
If your number pad is not working, there is likely dust on the keys. To clean the keys, turn off your computer and remove the battery from your keyboard. Then use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust from inside the keyboard.
You can also use a microfiber cloth or a soft toothbrush to remove dirt and oils from your keyboard use too much force; you risk damaging the keys or even breaking them off entirely. You should also ensure that you clean underneath your number pad so that any debris will be removed from that area.
4. Update Keyboard Drivers
The latest keyboard drivers should be downloaded from the manufacturer's website and to replace outdated keyboard driver. After downloading the required keyboard drivers, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Open the Device Manager by right-clicking the Windows key on the taskbar.
Step 2: To expand the Keyboards option, click the arrow next to it. After that, right-click on your keyboard and choose Update driver.
Step 3: Click the ‘Search automatically for drivers' part.
The system will install drivers verified by Windows Update.
5. Run Keyboard Troubleshooter
Using the keyboard troubleshooter, you can fix the issue if the number pad stops working suddenly. To do this:
Step 1: Press Windows + I Keys.
Step 2: Open Windows Settings and go to the system menu
Step 3: Click troubleshoot and open other troubleshooters
Step 4: Go to the keyboard troubleshooter section and run it.
6. Replace The Keys With New Ones
If you find your keyboard malfunctioning, it is probably time for a replacement. There are many options for replacing your keyboard, and this guide will help you decide which one is best for your needs.
First, check the space bar and delete keys to see if they work correctly. If they do not work properly, you will need to replace them with new ones. Be sure that they match up with the dimensions of what was originally installed in the keyboard so that it will fit properly once you have removed it from its housing unit (it should come with instructions on how best to do this).
7. Check For Keyboard Damage
It might be caused by cracks, dents, or broken keys. If you notice any of these problems, you must replace the keyboard. To do this, you need to remove all the keys from the keyboard and then try to turn them one at a time to see if they work properly. If they don't work, there is something wrong with the keyboard itself, and you will have to replace it with a new one.
FAQs
Q. Should I Buy A Keyboard With A Number Pad?
If you want to use your computer for its primary purpose, get a keyboard with a full-size number pad. Most keyboards have a key or two that can be used as a control key to access the function keys and other keys on the top row. This is fine if you're looking at words and numbers, but it's not ideal if you have to type long documents or do any programming.
Q. How Can I Test If My Keyboard Keys Are Working?
If you have doubts about whether your key works properly, you can try pressing it yourself instead of waiting for someone else to do it. You can also check with your system administrator if any special commands require different keys than what is standard on your computer keyboard.
Final Thoughts
It sounds like the rubber coating on your laptop is about to break down, opening that laptop up to potential damage. The best thing to do is give it a quick wipe with a soft dry cloth, monitor the keyboard for errors, and get in touch with customer support if nothing else seems to work.
