Fix your dead function keys F1-F12 on Windows 11. It starts with troubleshooting driver problems and software clashes, then hardware problems, refreshing File Explorer, performing a power cycle, modifying Registry settings, and resetting Task Manager.
Open Notepad and type: F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9 F10 F11 F12
Select and Copy the text using Ctrl + A and Ctrl + C.
Close Notepad, open a new one, and Paste the text.
Repeat the paste process five times.
Save the file and restart your computer.
This recalibrates the function key input.
Open File Explorer (Win + E).
Go to: C:\Windows\System32\drivers
Right-click kbdclass.sys, and select Properties.
Go to the Security tab and Edit Permissions.
Select your username, check Read & execute under Allow, and Apply.
Restart your computer.
This fixes permission conflicts caused by updates.
Shut down your computer.
Unplug the power cable (or remove the battery for laptops).
Hold the power button for 30 seconds.
Press each function key (F1-F12) firmly for 5 seconds.
This method discharges static buildup affecting function keys.
Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Keyboard Layout
Right-click, select New > String Value.
Name it ToggleKeys, right click & click on modify & set its value to 1, and restart.
After reboot, change the value back to 0 and restart again.
This registry reset resolves function key behavior issues.
Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
Go to the Details tab.
Right-click ctfmon.exe, select End task.
Repeat for TextInputHost.exe (if present).
Restart your computer.
These processes can interfere with keyboard input.
Keep track of function key issues.
Use each function key daily.
Reassign non-working keys using AutoHotkey or PowerToys.
