Windows 10: Start and Alt keys have switched function on external keyboard

Hi there,


I'm running bootcamp on my Mac and using a Logitech K850 keyboard. This morning I noticed that the Start and Alt keys have switched functions. I'm trying to use excel and it is terribly frustrating when using shortcuts. I would love any suggestions to fix.


Thanks,


Wilson

:)

 

Keyboard shortcut Alt key not working

Hi,



Before we proceed, I need more information to help you better.

• 
  Since when are you facing this issue?
  
• 
  Did you make any software or hardware changes on your computer prior to this issue?
  
  
  

I suggest you to follow the steps below and check if it helps.

Step 1: You may check if the ALT key is functioning correctly in on-screen keyboard. It will help us to verify if there is any issue with the keyboard.

Follow the steps below to open On-screen Keyboard.

• 
  Windows + Q, type OSK (on-screen keyboard)
  
• 
  And check if it works
  

Step 2: Run Hardware and device Troubleshooter.

Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter to check and fix issues with hardware and devices. I would suggest you to run this troubleshooter to check if the issue is with your devices. Refer these steps:

• 
  Press Windows key +X, select Control panel.
  
• 
  Change the view by option on the top right to Large icons.
  
• 
  Click on troubleshooting and click on the view all option on the left panel.
  
• 
  Run the Hardware and devices troubleshooter.
  

Keep us posted on this issue so that we can assist you better.

 

Both My Alt Keys Not Working

have you consider trying external key board to see if its a software or hard ware issue.

it could be simple as the pad under the alt key button that touched the circuit on the motherboard has wear out over time.

if this is the case then external keyboard will need to be used any way.

the other issue could be you hit special combination key and it switched off the alt key function read your laptop manual on how to reengage the alt key.

other possible cause your laptop cmos battery is starting to die (helps bios retain the motherboard functions in order to communicate with key board and devices) ask your computer repair shop how much it is to check that for you a weak cmos battery (bios)
will cause odd behaviour eventfully you will get constant F1 every time you start up asking you to set the bios then one day you wont be able to boot your laptop at all.

there is other causes too many to list but the basic idea is to try external keyboard to see if the alt key works on the external key if it does then retry the laptops alt key if it does not work then proceed to look at conflict hardware drivers to worst
case your laptop keyboard chipset is dying.

 

alt-key functionality

Hi Steven,

Thank you for posting your query on Microsoft Community.

I suggest you to follow the steps below and check if it helps:

• Single Click on the file.
• Tap F2 ( Function Key).
• Then type the name and enter.

Hope this answers your query and do let us know if you need further assistance. We will be glad to assist.