Dead Souls

Alt Key and Windows Key Swap: Here’s How to Fix It

• No Comments
• alt and windows key switched

It’s one of those frustrating moments: You press the Windows key to open the Start menu, but instead, it behaves like the Alt key, or vice versa. For many users, this kind of issue can throw off their workflow, especially when they rely heavily on keyboard shortcuts for productivity. This glitch can happen for a variety of reasons, such as accidental remapping, system updates, or using specialized keyboard software. Thankfully, fixing the windows and alt key switched swap is easier than you might think.
Understanding the Issue
Before diving into the solution, it’s important to understand why this issue occurs. When the Alt key and Windows key get swapped, pressing one key might trigger the action that’s normally reserved for the other. For example, the Windows key, which typically opens the Start menu, might instead function like an Alt key, activating keyboard shortcuts that use Alt (like Alt + Tab for switching between apps). Conversely, the Alt key might start behaving like the Windows key, opening the Start menu unexpectedly when pressed.
This mix-up typically happens due to a few common reasons:
• Accidental remapping: Key remapping software or settings can unintentionally assign the wrong function to the keys.
• System updates or errors: Sometimes, a Windows update or an issue with drivers can cause a temporary swap of the keys.
• Third-party software: Programs that manage keyboard shortcuts or customizations can also alter key behavior, especially if they’re not configured correctly.
How to Fix the Alt and Windows Key Swap
Thankfully, you don’t need to panic. Whether the issue is due to software interference or a simple settings glitch, there are several ways to fix the swapped keys and restore their original functionality.
1. Check Ease of Access Settings
Windows has built-in settings that can change how your keyboard behaves, including enabling functions like Sticky Keys or Filter Keys, which could affect your keys. To check if these settings are causing the swap, follow these steps:
1. Open the Control Panel: Press Win + R, type “Control Panel,” and hit Enter.
2. Ease of Access: In the Control Panel, navigate to Ease of Access and click on Ease of Access Center.
3. Keyboard Settings: Under the Make the keyboard easier to use section, ensure that options like Sticky Keys or Filter Keys are disabled.
4. Restart Your Computer: Once you’ve adjusted these settings, restart your system to see if the keys function correctly.
If none of these settings were enabled, the issue likely lies elsewhere.
2. Use SharpKeys to Remap the Keys
For a more precise fix, third-party software like SharpKeys can help you remap your keys back to their default behavior. This free tool allows you to easily swap or reset key functions.
1. Download and Install SharpKeys: Visit the SharpKeys website and install the program.
2. Open SharpKeys: After installation, open the program.
3. Add a New Key Mapping: Click Add, then press the key that you want to swap (for example, Windows key) and assign it to the correct function (Alt key). Do the same for the Alt key, mapping it back to the Windows key if needed.
4. Save and Apply: After setting up your key mappings, click Write to Registry to save the changes.
5. Restart: A restart is required to ensure the changes take effect.
SharpKeys is a straightforward solution for users who want a clean and simple interface to fix key mapping issues without diving into complex settings.
3. Check Keyboard Driver Issues
Sometimes, faulty or outdated keyboard drivers can lead to key functionality issues, including the Alt and Windows key swap. To check and update your keyboard drivers:
1. Device Manager: Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Keyboards: Look for your keyboard in the list of devices and right-click on it.
3. Update Driver: Select Update driver and follow the prompts to search for the latest driver software.
4. Restart: After updating, restart your computer to see if the issue is resolved.
If your keyboard drivers are already up to date and the keys are still swapped, you might want to consider using a system restore to revert any recent changes that could have caused the problem.
4. Check for Third-Party Software Conflicts
If you’ve been using third-party software to remap your keys or create custom shortcuts, it’s possible that these programs are causing the issue. Programs like AutoHotkey, KeyTweak, or even gaming software can unintentionally swap your keys if they have conflicting settings.
To troubleshoot this:
1. Disable or Uninstall Key Remapping Software: Temporarily disable or uninstall any key remapping software you have installed.
2. Test the Keys: After disabling the software, check if the Alt and Windows keys function properly.
5. Reset Keyboard Settings in the Registry
If you’re comfortable with advanced options, resetting key mappings through the Windows Registry can be an effective solution. However, be cautious with this method, as improper changes can cause system issues.
1. Open Registry Editor: Press Win + R, type “regedit,” and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Keyboard Layout: Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlKeyboard Layout.
3. Delete Key Mappings: If there are any key remappings listed here, delete them.
4. Restart: Reboot your computer to apply the changes.
Conclusion
A swapped Alt key and Windows key can be an annoying issue, but it’s one that can be resolved fairly quickly. Whether you opt for the easy route of checking your system settings or use third-party software like SharpKeys, you can restore the default functionality of these keys. By troubleshooting and using the steps above, you’ll have your keyboard back to normal in no time.