The most common cause of WASD acting like arrow keys is a keyboard feature or remapping tool that has reassigned those keys.
Try these steps in order:
- Check for debris or hardware issues
- Gently blow compressed air around the W, A, S, D, and arrow keys.
- Wipe the keys with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.
- Test again.
- If possible, plug in an external keyboard. If the external keyboard works normally, the built-in keyboard may have a hardware issue.
- Test in Safe Mode
- Boot Windows into Safe Mode.
- Test the WASD keys there.
- If they work normally in Safe Mode, a third‑party app (such as a keyboard remapper, gaming utility, or macro tool) is likely causing the swap. Uninstall or disable that software in normal mode.
- Check for key remapping utilities (for example, PowerToys Keyboard Manager)
- If a remapping tool is installed, open it and look for any mappings that change W, A, S, or D to arrow keys.
- Remove or disable those mappings.
- Apply the changes and test again.
- Update Windows and keyboard drivers
- Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install all updates.
- If using a specific keyboard driver or OEM utility, update it from the manufacturer’s support page.
If the problem persists on multiple keyboards and in Safe Mode, and no remapping tools are present, the issue is likely hardware-related and the keyboard may need repair or replacement.
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