Windows 10: Fn + Esc no longer locks the function key

Previously, I used to lock the function key by pressing Fn + Esc, allowing me to use the function keys F1 to F12 directly without holding down the Fn key e.g., F3 to increase volume, F2 to decrease volume. However, now pressing Fn + Esc no longer locks the function key, and I have to hold the Fn key to use the function keys. Both Fn and Esc keys are functioning individually, but Fn + Esc doesn’t lock the function key anymore. Does anyone know why this is happening?

:)

 

How do I lock my f function keys on my keyboard without “fn lock” button?

Thank you for your suggestion, if you have the fn key you can use fn+ esc to lock it.

Mustafa

 

how to use f1-f12 key without holding fn key

Thanks for reaching out! I'm an Independent Advisor and a Microsoft user like you.

Please try these steps:

Method 1: Use the Fn Lock key (if available)

Some keyboards have a dedicated Fn Lock key, usually with a lock symbol. To enable the F1-F12 keys without Fn:

1. Locate the Fn Lock key on your keyboard.
   
2. Press the Fn key and the Fn Lock key simultaneously.
   

This should toggle the functionality so you can use F1-F12 directly without pressing Fn.

Method 2: Change settings in BIOS

If your keyboard doesn't have an Fn Lock key, you'll need to change the settings in the BIOS. The steps may vary slightly, but generally:

1. Restart your computer and press the key to enter BIOS setup (often F2, F10, Del or Esc) repeatedly at startup.
   
2. In the BIOS, navigate to the System Configuration or Keyboard settings section using the arrow keys.
   
3. Look for an option like "Action Keys Mode" or "Function Key Behavior" and select it.
   
4. Change the setting to "Enabled" or "Function Keys" mode. This will allow using F1-F12 without Fn.
   
5. Save the changes and exit BIOS. Your computer will restart with the new setting applied.
   

If neither of these methods work, your keyboard may not support changing the default F1-F12 behavior without using the Fn key. You can check the manufacturer's support website or manual for any additional options.

Please let me know if you need any further assistance.

 

FN key always on

If you press “Num Lock" (might also be labeled "Num Lk”) (I’ve also seen it labeled “Pad Lock” for numeric Pad) it turns on the blue keys, and inverts the meaning of the “Fn” key – it’s a way to use that embedded numeric keypad without having to hold down the “Fn” key the entire time. To fix it, just find and press the “Num Lock” or “Pad Lock” key again. (Note, sometimes these keys are themselves “Fn” keys, so you may, or may not, need to also hold down the “Fn” key to get the right function.) Often there is an indicator light associated with the setting.