Follow these steps to troubleshoot the non-working keys (X, S, W, Caps Lock, Left Shift):
- Check for physical issues
- Inspect the affected keys for visible damage, cracks, or if they feel different when pressed.
- Use a can of compressed air to blow out dust or debris from around and under the keys.
- Wipe the keyboard surface with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
- If keys are cracked, damaged, or have fallen off, this indicates hardware failure and the keyboard likely needs repair or replacement.
- Test whether the issue is hardware or software
- Connect an external keyboard to the PC and test the same keys (X, S, W, Caps Lock, Left Shift).
- If the external keyboard works correctly, the built-in keyboard is likely faulty (hardware issue).
- If the external keyboard shows the same problem, it is likely a software/driver or settings issue.
- Connect an external keyboard to the PC and test the same keys (X, S, W, Caps Lock, Left Shift).
- Check keyboard behavior in another environment
- Boot into Safe Mode and test the keys.
- If keys work in Safe Mode, a third-party app or driver may be interfering.
- If possible, test the keyboard on another PC (for USB or external keyboards).
- If it does not work on another PC, replacement is likely required.
- Boot into Safe Mode and test the keys.
- Check Windows keyboard settings
- In Windows 11: go to Settings → Accessibility → Keyboard.
- In Windows 10: go to Settings → Ease of Access → Keyboard.
- Turn off features like Sticky Keys and Filter Keys if they are on, as they can change how key presses are handled.
- Update or reinstall keyboard drivers
- Open Device Manager (type "device manager" in the taskbar search and select Device Manager).
- Find the keyboard under the keyboard category.
- Open its properties, go to the Driver tab, and select Update Driver.
- Alternatively, uninstall the keyboard device and restart the PC so Windows reinstalls the driver.
- Also run Windows Update (Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates) to ensure all device drivers and system updates are current.
- Determine if service is needed
- If specific keys remain intermittently or permanently non-functional after cleaning, testing with an external keyboard, and updating drivers, this strongly suggests a hardware failure.
- In that case, arrange service or replacement for the keyboard or device.
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