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How to Change Function Keys on Windows 11
- Functions Keys provide access to unique features like Airplane Mode and display brightness levels without having to go into your settings.
- However, there may be an occasion when you want to change the functionality of those keys to suit your needs.
- This guide will show you how to change your Function Keys using Microsoft PowerToys.

You probably use function keys every single day of your life, but don’t understand their purpose. Function keys on keyboards are tied to a specific feature on a computer, like increasing brightness level on a display or controlling the volume.
Admittedly, Function keys have so much usage that it can be confusing as to what they exactly do.
There may be times when you accidentally press a function key while typing and your computer do something that you didn’t know it could do.
Although function keys are pre-set, you can still change what they do. It’s important to point out what the function keys do is not universal across all Windows PCs and laptops.
Why should I change function keys on my Windows 11 computer and how?
The reason why you would want to change your function keys is to personalize your computer and know exactly what it does.
As stated earlier, function keys may have unknown uses or features, and it’s highly recommended that Windows 11 users know the ins and outs of their device so they can get the most out of it.
Digging into the inner workings of your computer can teach you a lot. Plus, configuring something all your own is a great way to make sure your machine meets your needs.
On some computers, you can remap your keyboard by going into the settings menu, but a lot of the time, this isn’t possible.
Expert tip:
Some PC issues are hard to tackle, especially when it comes to corrupted repositories or missing Windows files. If you are having troubles fixing an error, your system may be partially broken. We recommend installing Restoro, a tool that will scan your machine and identify what the fault is. Click here to download and start repairing.
To solve this, you can install a third-party app and use that to remap your computer.

As you’re wondering how can you reassign function keys, this guide will show you some easy ways you can do just that.
One of the best third-party remapping apps is PowerToys and it works universally on all keyboards. Some gaming keyboards have their apps, but PowerToys is honestly better and saves space.
How can I change the function keys on Windows 11?
1. download and install the microsoft powertoys app.

- You will be taken to the official Github page for PowerToys.

- After a few seconds, PowerToys will install.
2. Configure PowerToys
- Click on the magnifying glass icon to bring up the Windows 11 search bar.

- It was automatically close and reopen after a few seconds.

- Make sure Enable Keyboard Manager has been turned On.

- A window appear telling that once reassigned, you can’t use the original function of that key. The change is permanent unless you uninstall PowerToys.

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Screen goes black when alt-tab how to stop it, how to dual boot windows 11 and macos [full guide], how to create a partition over 2tb: simple way, 3. map multiple inputs to a single function key.
- You can input multiple presses and map that to one Function Key.
- Go back to the Remap keys menu in PowerToys.

- Press the newly mapped Function Key to see if it works.
4. Configure keyboard inputs
- Click on the magnifying glass icon to bring up the search bar.

- Click Category next to View by.

Are there other keyboards tips that I should know about?
If you have a Windows 10 computer, it’s recommended that you also learn how to change the function keys on that OS too. It’s not that difficult as PowerToys and other third-party apps that work on Windows 11 also work on the older OS.
What you may not be aware of is using BIOS and UEFI Settings on Windows 10, which are firmware that can change a computer’s runtime services. However, it does take a bit of technical know-how.
There have also been cases of people reporting their keyboard layout changing to a completely different language . This can be caused by a corrupted user profile or the Fast Startup messing with the system. Whatever the case may be, fixing this weird glitch is highly recommended.

And if you get to a point where you don’t feel like typing away but still need to write, then you should look into the text-to-speech and voice recognition features on Windows 11 . That way you can still work with just your voice. Set up is easy as it requires you to go into the Settings menu and turn the feature on.
Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions on other Windows 11 apps or features. Also, leave comments about guides that you’d like to see.
Still having issues? Fix them with this tool:
If the advices above haven't solved your issue, your PC may experience deeper Windows problems. We recommend downloading this PC Repair tool (rated Great on TrustPilot.com) to easily address them. After installation, simply click the Start Scan button and then press on Repair All.
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How to create a custom keyboard layout in windows 11, error 0x80071129: how to fix this onedrive tag issue, how to remove quick access in windows 11, no location tab in properties: how to enable it, how to delete a partition on windows 11 [quick ways].
Windows keyboard shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are keys or combinations of keys that provide an alternate way to do something you'd typically do with a mouse.
Here are several common keyboard shortcuts:
Copy: Ctrl + C
Cut: Ctrl + X
Paste: Ctrl + V
Maximize Window: F11 or Windows logo key + Up arrow
Open Task View: Windows logo key + Tab
Display and hide the desktop: Windows logo key + D
Switch between open apps: Alt + Tab
Open the Quick Link menu: Windows logo key + X
Lock your PC: Windows logo key + L
Depending on your hardware, you can use Windows logo key + PrtScn to take a screenshot, or use Fn + Windows logo key + Spacebar .
See all Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts
See all Windows 10 keyboard shortcuts

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How to Set Up Hotkey to Programs on Windows 11
Oct 21, 2022
Shortcut keys are a convenient way for many users to use the computer. Setting shortcut keys for commonly used software can help us quickly open programs. This article will show you how to Set Up Hotkey to Programs on Windows 11.
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Keyboard shortcuts are a convenient way to help us quickly access programs. Compared with complicated steps to open the program we want, shortcut keys can help us improve efficiency. Fortunately, we can set shortcuts to commonly used programs in Windows 11, and it's not that hard to do. If you're having trouble setting up shortcut keys, this article will help you.
Method1. Set up Hotkey by using the program Properties.
Step1. open the program properties..
Right-click the program that you need to set up the hotkey, and select properties in the right-click menu.

Step2. Set up the Hotkey.
Click the Shortcut tab at the top of the Window, move the cursor to the Shortcut key area, then click on the keyboard shortcut you want to set, you can see shortcut keys appear in the box. Finally, click the Apply button, then click OK to close the window.

Method2. Set up Hotkey by using Wise Hotkey.
In addition to using program properties to set shortcuts, you can also use third-party software. Wise Hotkey is a software that you will love. It can help you quickly set shortcuts for programs, folders, and websites.
Step1. Download Wise Hotkey.
You can click here to safely download Wise Hotkey, install and run it after the download is complete.
Step2. Add the Program.
Run the Wise Hotkey, and you will see a grid with many plus signs. Click any plus sign to add the desired program, folder, or website.

Step3. Set up custom hotkeys.
After you add the program, move your cursor to the box and select your favorite shortcut on the keyboard. You can see shortcut keys appear in the box. After setting up all programs, folders, or websites, close the window.

Using Wise Hotkey can help you quickly customize the shortcut keys and make it easy to manage the programs you set. If you want to cancel the shortcut, you only need to move the cursor over the program and click the close button in the upper right corner.
If you also want to open the desired program more efficiently, try setting a shortcut key. It is believed you will like this way of opening.
More Related Articles You May Like
If you usually work with many different programs on your computer and want to save time, it is necessary for you to set a custom keyboard shortcut to open a particular application in windows 10.
Launching some applications which you use frequently in windows quickly can make your work conveniently and efficiently. So it is necessary for you to know some built-in tricks in windows.
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The Ultimate Guide to Windows 11's Keyboard Shortcuts
Want to zip around Windows 11 with your keyboard? Here's how to perform common tasks in Windows 11 with shortcuts.
If you spend a lot of your time on your keyboard, knowing good keyboard shortcuts can help boost your productivity. Whether you want to resize an app window or move it across multiple displays, you can do so without lifting your hands from your keyboard.
While almost all the shortcuts supported in Windows 10 remain the same in Windows 11, the new iteration of Microsoft’s venerable OS comes with a bunch of new ones too. Here is a list of Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts to help you swiftly navigate Desktop, Command Prompt, File Explorer, Accessibility features and more.
New Keyboard Shortcuts in Windows 11
Win key combo shortcuts in windows 11.
Press the Win key and it brings up the Start menu. However, there are many things you can do with the Windows key combo shortcuts. For example, Win + R opens the Run dialog, Win + S open the Windows search bar, and Win + L locks your computer.
Free Cheat Sheet: Download Our Free Windows CMD Commands Cheat Sheet
Here is a full list of Windows key-enabled shortcuts.
File Explorer Shortcuts for Windows 11
File Explorer helps you find files you need quickly. These keyboard shortcuts can help you access and manage your files and folders efficiently.
Related: Best Windows File Explorer Tips for Speedy File Management
Keyboard Shortcuts for the Xbox Game Bar
You can use Xbox Game Bar for more than just capturing screenshots in Windows. Here are a few Gamebar specific shortcuts to launch, and quickly perform other in-game tasks.
General Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows 11
Here are a few general keyboards shortcuts to perform the basic cut, copy, paste, access Clipboard history, and other tasks.
Command Prompt Shortcuts for Windows 11
These Command Prompt keyboard shortcuts can help you quickly navigate the terminal window.
Accessibility Shortcuts for Windows 11
If you use the Accessibility feature, these shortcuts can make it easier to find and use the Accessibility features Windows offers.
Expediate Common Tasks With These Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts
These are some of the most common keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11 that you can use to perform day-to-day operations. Needless to say, most of these keyboard shortcuts also work on Windows 10 and earlier versions. For application-specific shortcuts, look for them next to the menu items or hover over a button to display its keyboard shortcut.
If you have a hard time memorizing these keyboard shortcuts (we all do), take a printout and paste it on your wall. You can also use flashcard tools like Anki that uses the Spaced Repetition method to help you remember things easily.

Taking Screenshots on Windows 10 and 11 Is Easy. Here's How
Keyboard shortcuts are just one way to take screenshots on your PC.

Taking screenshots of important documents, like plane tickets or receipts for online purchases, is a good way to make sure you have access to your documents in case ticket apps or your email aren't working. Whether you have Windows 10 or Windows 11 , there are a few easy ways to take screenshots of all (or part) of your screen.
While Microsoft no longer sells Windows 10 , the software giant will still support the operating system until October 2025 . That means you don't have to switch to Windows 11 just yet, and you can still use these screenshot tips for the next couple years.
Here's how to use built-in tools and other shortcuts for taking screenshots in Windows 10 and Windows 11, so you can decide which you like best.

Snip & Sketch
The Snip & Sketch tool is easier to access, share and annotate screenshots than the old Snipping Tool. It can now capture a screenshot of a window on your desktop, a surprising omission when the app was first introduced that kept us on Team Snipping Tool until recently.
The easiest way to call up Snip & Sketch is with the keyboard shortcut Windows key + Shift + S . You can also find the Snip & Sketch tool listed in the alphabetical list of apps accessed from the Start button as well as in the notification panel where it's listed as Screen snip . Or you can just search for it if you don't commit the keyboard shortcut to memory. (If you're a frequent screenshot taker, we recommend pinning the app to the taskbar.)
The built-in Snip & Sketch app has finally won us over and is now our go-to method for taking screenshots in Windows 10 and 11. So long, Snipping Tool.
Either the keyboard shortcut or the notification button will dim your screen and open a tiny menu at the top of your screen that lets you choose which type of screenshot you want to take: rectangular, freeform, window or full-screen. Once you take your screenshot, it will be saved to your clipboard and show up momentarily as a notification in the lower-right corner of your screen. Click the notification to open the screenshot in the Snip & Sketch app to annotate, save or share it. (If you miss the notification, open the notification panel and you'll see it sitting there.)
If you open Snip & Sketch from the Start menu or by searching for it, it will open the Snip & Sketch window instead of the small panel at the top of the screen. From here, you need to click the New button in the upper left to initiate a screen capture and open the small panel. It's an extra step to proceed this way, but it also lets you delay a screenshot. Click the down-arrow button next to the New button to delay a snip for 3 or 10 seconds.
What to Know About Windows 11
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Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool has been around since Windows Vista. Windows has warned for a couple years that the Snipping Tool is going away, but it's still kicking around in Windows 11. The Snipping Tool has been delisted from the list of apps in the Start menu, but you can still easily access it via the search bar.
Click the New button to begin the screenshot process. The default snip type is rectangular, but you can also take free-form, full-screen and window snips.
Snipping Tool does not automatically save your screenshots -- you will need to manually save them in the tool before you exit -- and it does automatically copy your captures to the clipboard.
The Snipping Tool has been with Windows for a long time.
Print Screen
To capture your entire screen, tap the Print Screen (sometimes labeled PrtScn ) key. Your screenshot won't be saved as a file, but it will be copied to the clipboard. You'll need to open an image editing tool (such as Microsoft Paint), paste the screenshot into the editor and save the file from there.
You can also set the PrtScn button to open the Snip & Sketch tool by going to Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard and toggling on Use the PrtScn button to open screen snipping under Print Screen Shortcut.
You can adjust print screen settings in Windows.
Windows key + Print Screen
To capture your entire screen and automatically save the screenshot, tap the Windows key + Print Screen key . Your screen will briefly go dim to indicate you've just taken a screenshot, and the screenshot will be saved to the Pictures > Screenshots folder.
Alt + Print Screen
To take a quick screenshot of the active window, use the keyboard shortcut Alt + PrtScn . This will snap your currently active window and copy the screenshot to the clipboard. You'll need to open the shot in an image editor to save it.
No Print Screen key?
If your computer doesn't have the PrtScn key, no worries, Microsoft has another keyboard shortcut for you. You can press Fn + Windows logo key + Space Bar to take a screenshot. It will then be saved to the Pictures > Screenshots folder.
You can use the Game bar to snap a screenshot, whether you're in the middle of playing a game or not. First, you'll need to enable the Game bar from the settings page by making sure you've toggled on Record game clips, screenshots and broadcasts using Game bar . Once enabled, hit the Windows key + G key to call up the Game bar. From here, you can click the screenshot button in the Game bar or use the default keyboard shortcut Windows key + Alt + PrtScn to snap a full-screen screenshot. To set your own Game bar screenshot keyboard shortcut, to Settings > Gaming > Game bar .
Windows Logo + volume down
If you're rocking a Microsoft Surface device , you can use the physical (well, sort of physical) buttons to take a screenshot of your entire screen -- similar to how you would take a screenshot on any other phone or tablet. To do this, hold down the Windows Logo touch button at the bottom of your Surface screen and hit the physical volume-down button on the side of the tablet. The screen will dim briefly and the screenshot will be automatically saved to the Pictures > Screenshots folder.
Want more Windows info? Check out CNET's Windows 11 review and every difference between Windows 10 and Windows 11 . You can also check out what Microsoft 365 Basic offers .
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How to Customize Your Icons in Windows 11
Nick Lewis is a staff writer for How-To Geek. He has been using computers for 20 years --- tinkering with everything from the UI to the Windows registry to device firmware. Before How-To Geek, he used Python and C++ as a freelance programmer. In college, Nick made extensive use of Fortran while pursuing a physics degree. Read more...

One of the best things about Windows is the freedom it gives you to customize your user experience. There are dozens of programs available to change the user interface. Here are some ways to customize your icons with the default options in Windows, and some third-party tools.
Where Can You Find Icons? You Can Make Your Own Icons How to Change Your Desktop Icons on Windows 11 How to Change the Icon of an Individual Folder or Shortcut How to Change the Icon of a Folder How to Change the Icon of a Shortcut How to Select and Apply an Icon to a Folder or Shortcut How to Change Icon by File Type
Where Can You Find Icons?
There are tons of icons freely available on the internet. Just exercise some caution — plenty of sites prey on people looking for things like icon packs, and will install malware or potentially-unwanted-programs (PUPs) if given the opportunity.
Warning: There is never a reason for an icon or icon package to install software to your computer just to download some icons. If you download an icon and find yourself looking at an EXE or MSI file — or any other installer or executable file — stop what you’re doing and delete it.
RELATED: Basic Computer Security: How to Protect Yourself from Viruses, Hackers, and Thieves
Individual icons will typically be an ICO file if they were designed for use with Windows. That said, it isn’t unusual to download an icon in another image format, like PNG, SVG, or ICNS if it was designed to work with multiple operating systems. PNGs and SVGs are especially versatile since they can be readily converted into an icon for any operating system out there.
You should expect icon packages to come in some kind of archival file, like a ZIP, RAR, or 7Z file. The archive file should contain typical icon formats. Like before, if you see an executable or anything like one, stay clear.
There are a handful of big sites that have icons you can download:
- IconArchive
If you’re looking for more specific icons, like those specific to a fandom or in a particular style, try a social media group on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit dedicated to that topic. You might find some intrepid artist has already created what you’re looking for already.
If you can’t find an icon (or icons) that you like, don’t worry: You can make your own!
You Can Make Your Own Icons
You’re always able to make your own custom icons if you don’t want to download an icon or icon pack from the internet. There really is no limit to what you can do here except your imagination — free tools like GIMP and Inkscape are completely up for the task.
You can even make an icon out of an image if you wanted to — all you need is GIMP and a bit of spare time.
RELATED: How to Make an Icon for Windows 10 or 11 Out of Any Image
How to Change Your Desktop Icons on Windows 11
The major desktop icons — like “This PC,” “Recycle Bin,” “Network,” and a few others — are the easiest icons to change. Windows 11 has options built right in to do just that.
RELATED: Here's What Windows 11's Settings App Looks Like
Right-click empty space on your desktop and click “Personalization.”
Scroll down a bit and select “Themes.”
Scroll down again, then click “Desktop Icon Settings.”
Select the icon you’d like to change, then click “Change Icon.” This example will replace the “This PC” icon.
When you click “Change Icon,” you’ll see a whole bunch of other Windows icons you probably recognize. You’re viewing the contents of Imageres.dll , which contains several hundred default Windows icons. You can pick from any of those if you want, or you can load in other icons by clicking “Browse.”
RELATED: What Are DLL Files, and Why Is One Missing From My PC?
Navigate to wherever you saved your icon, click it, and then click “OK.”
Once you hit OK, there is a preview that’ll show you what the icon will look like. If you like the change, click “Apply.” Otherwise, click “Restore Default.”
That is it — the icon should change immediately. If it doesn’t, right-click empty space on your desktop and hit “Refresh,” or restart your computer. You can return to the Desktop Icon Settings window at any time and hit “Restore Default” to undo any of your customizations.
How to Change the Icon of an Individual Folder or Shortcut
Maybe you don’t want to change one of the major desktop icons. Maybe you want to change a specific program’s shortcut, the icon of a shortcut you made, or the icon for a folder you have. You’re in luck — it is even easier to change those kinds of icons than it is desktop icons.
Note: There is a small difference between shortcuts and folders. You’ll use the “Shortcut” tab on shortcuts of any kind and the “Customize” tab for folders.
Find the folder or shortcut you want, right-click it, and then click “Properties” in the right-click context menu.
How to Change the Icon of a Folder
If you’re changing the icon of a folder, select the “Customize” tab along the top, then click “Change Icon.”
How to Change the Icon of a Shortcut
If you’re changing the icon of a shortcut, you need to click on the “Shortcut” tab instead and then click “Change Icon.” All of the other steps will be the same.
How to Select and Apply an Icon to a Folder or Shortcut
The popup will open to whatever folder, DLL , or EXE contains the current icon. If you’re changing a default Windows icon, it’ll probably be shell32.dll or imageres.dll. If you’re changing the icon for a specific program, it’ll almost always be the program’s executable.
Click “Browse,” navigate to the icon you want, select the desired icon, then click “OK.”
Note: In this case, we just used the green-blue folder icon found in imageres.dll. There is no reason that your replacement has to be one of those icons.
Once you click “OK,” the Properties folder will display the new icon you’ve selected. Click “Apply” to commit the change, then close out the Properties window.
Note: If you’re customizing a shortcut, this will look a little different, but don’t worry. The step is the same. Just click “Apply.”
Warning: You cannot move an ICO file to a different location if it has been used to change the icon of a folder without breaking the new icon. It’ll revert to the old one automatically if you do. Make sure you put your icon somewhere it can stay indefinitely. A hidden folder in your main C:\ directory might be a good place.
The change should take immediately. If it doesn’t, right-click empty space on your desktop and click “Refresh.” You could also just restart your PC.
How to Change Icon by File Type
We’ve covered how to change the main desktop icons and how to change the icon of any particular application, shortcut, or folder. What if you want to change the icon that is used to represent all files of a certain type?
RELATED: Windows Registry Demystified: What You Can Do With It
There really isn’t a convenient way to do that built into Windows 11, but it is easily doable with Nirsoft’s FileTypesMan tool. Just be sure to grab the 64-bit version of the program, since all Windows 11 installations are 64-bit. The download will have a special name or label, like “x64” or “64-bit” attached to it.
Warning: You should always be leery of downloading strange programs off of the internet. However, in this case, you don’t need to worry. Nirsoft has been around for almost as long as Windows has, and their programs are reliable.
Unzip FileTypesMan from its ZIP file wherever you want. It doesn’t install, and it doesn’t care where you run it from either. Just double-click “filetypesman.exe.”
RELATED: How to Zip and Unzip Files on Windows 11
You’ll see a list of every file type your PC “knows about” as soon as FileTypesMan launches.
Scroll down through the list until you find the file type you want. Right-click the file extension, then click “Edit Selected File Type.” For this example, we’ll replace the default REG file icon with a quick green recolor we made in GIMP.
Warning: Make sure you note where the original icon is stored. There isn’t an easy “Reset To Default” button that’ll fix it automatically for you. If you change it and decide you don’t like it, you’ll have to change it back to the original icon yourself.
Look for the line titled “Default Icon” and click the three-dot button on the far right side of the Window.
Click “Browse” in the corner of the popup, navigate to your new icon, click it, then click “OK.”
Finally, click “OK” at the bottom of the “Edit File Type” window, and you’re done — all of the icons for that file type will have changed.
If you move or delete the new icon, every single instance of that icon will be replaced with a generic white rectangle instead of the new one you chose or the original icon. If you’re going to install custom icons, make sure you put them somewhere where you won’t accidentally delete them. A hidden folder in the main C:\ directory might be a good place.
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How to change keyboard layout on Windows 11
Do you type in multiple languages? If so, you'll benefit from additional keyboard layouts. Here's how to add more on Windows 11.

Although Windows 11 gives you a chance to add keyboard layouts during the out-of-box experience (OOBE), it's possible to add or remove them at any time.
Technically, you can continue with the default layout if you know how to insert special characters (such as the "Ñ" character in Spanish). However, changing the keyboard layout on Windows 11 makes it a lot easier to type in a different language. Also, this feature comes in handy if you simply prefer a different layout, such as the United States-Dvorak.
In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to add or remove keyboard layouts on your device.
How to add keyboard layout on Windows 11
How to remove keyboard layout on windows 11.
To add a keyboard layout on Windows 11, use these steps:
- Open Settings .
- Click on Time & language .
- Click the Language & region page on the right side.
- Click the menu (three-dotted) button next to the language and click on Language options .
- Under the "Keyboards" section, click the Add a keyboard button for the "Installed keyboards" setting.
- Select the keyboard layout to add to Windows 11.
Once you complete the steps, the new layout will configure on your account. You may need to repeat the steps to add more layouts as required.
To change to another keyboard layout, use these steps:
- Click the Keyboard layout icon in Taskbar (bottom right).
- Select the new keyboard layout.
- Repeat steps 1 and 2 to switch back to the default layout.
Alternatively, you can also use the Windows key + spacebar keyboard shortcut to cycle between the layouts.
To delete a keyboard layout on Windows 11, use these steps:
- Under the "Keyboards" section, click the menu (three-dotted) button next to the keyboard layout and click the Remove option.
After you complete the steps, the keyboard layout will no longer be available on Windows 11. If you have multiple layouts, you may need to repeat the steps to remove those you don't need.
More Windows resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
- Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
- Windows 11 help, tips, and tricks
- Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know
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Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he's a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.
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How to Change Your Keyboard Layout in Windows 11
We'll show you 4 different ways
Knowing how to switch keyboard layouts is essential if your computer has multiple keyboards or you type in several languages. You might also need to change your keyboard’s layout if some keys are swapped or stop working correctly .
This tutorial covers four ways to change the keyboard layout on Windows 11 computers. You’ll also learn how to add and remove keyboard layouts on your Windows PC.


Change Keyboard Layout From the Taskbar
You can change your PC’s keyboard layout from the system tray on the Windows 11 Taskbar.
Select the Language Bar in the bottom-right corner of the Taskbar and choose a keyboard layout.

Can’t find the Language Bar on your PC’s system tray? Go to Settings > Time & language > Typing > Advanced keyboard settings and uncheck Use the desktop language bar when it is available . That’ll unhide the Language Bar and dock it to the system tray.

Change Keyboard Layout Using Keyboard Shortcuts
Windows 11 has several hotkeys for changing keyboard layouts. Use these hotkeys if you routinely switch keyboard layouts or languages while typing.
Pressing Windows key + Spacebar switches your keyboard layout in Windows 11. You should see your keyboard layout change on the Taskbar’s system tray.

Alternatively, press and hold the Windows key and press the Spacebar key . Hold the Windows key and select a preferred keyboard layout using your mouse/touchpad cursor.
You can also use the Left Alt + Shift key combination to change your computer’s keyboard layout.

Ctrl + Shift is another shortcut for changing the keyboard layout on Windows 11 devices.

Change Touch Keyboard Layout
Switching the touch keyboard’s layout is easy if you use a Windows 11 tablet or touchscreen PC.
Tap the language abbreviation in the bottom-right corner and choose a new layout on the list.

Change Keyboard Layout via Windows Settings
Open the Settings app ( Windows key + I ) and follow the steps below to change your keyboard layout.
- Select Time & language on the sidebar and select Typing .

- Scroll down the page and select Advanced keyboard settings .

- Open the Use language list drop-down menu and choose your desired keyboard layout or input method.

The new input method immediately becomes the default keyboard layout for your computer. You can change your default input method at any time.
Add or Remove Keyboard Layouts in Windows 11
Does your keyboard have an unfamiliar layout? Do you want to add secondary layouts to your keyboard? Follow the instructions below to add or remove keyboard layouts on your PC.
- Open the Settings app, select Time & language on the sidebar, and select Langauge & region .

- Select the three-dot icon on a language in the “Language” section and select Language options .

You’ll find all installed keyboards for the selected language in the “Keyboards” section.

- Select the Add a keyboard button to add a new keyboard layout to the language.

- Scroll through the list and select the keyboard layout you want to add.

- To delete a keyboard, select its three-dot menu icon , and choose Remove .

Switch to Different Keyboard Layouts
Windows 11 offers flexible options to change keyboard layouts. Use the above methods to switch keyboards in applications—even on the sign-in screen. Reboot your computer or update its operating system if you have trouble changing, adding, or removing keyboard layouts.
Sodiq has written thousands of tutorials, guides, and explainers over the past 4 years to help people solve problems with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows devices. He also enjoys reviewing consumer tech products (smartphones, smart home devices, accessories, etc.) and binge-watching comedy series in his spare time. Read Sodiq's Full Bio
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How to Change Windows 11 Startup Programs (Add, Delete, Enable, Disable)
We show you how to change startup programs in Windows 11, including how to stop a program from running at startup or add an app to your startup list.

- 1 How to Enable or Disable Programs Running at Startup via Task Manager
- 2 How to Change Startup Items via the Windows 11 Startup Folder
- 3 How to Delete Startup Programs in Windows 11 via the Registry Editor
- 4 How to Change What Apps Open on Startup via Settings
- 5 How to Add or Remove Startup Programs via an App’s Advanced Options
- 6 How to Run Microsoft Store Apps at Startup in Windows 11
- 7 How to Disable the Startup Delay
- 8 How to Let (or Stop) Apps from Running in the Background
Windows 11 startup programs (aka. autostart programs) can be a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, auto-starting apps can be very handy if you use them a lot. On the other, many programs take advantage of this feature to make themselves start on boot when you don’t really want to. Today we will show you how to change startup programs in Windows 11 so you’re greeted only by the ones you need.
You can change startup programs, apps, and other startup items
Though most of you will want to know how to stop a program from running at startup (disable autostart), you should know that startup items aren’t limited to apps. Indeed, you add and enable shortcuts, specific folders, drivers, scripts, and more to your Windows 11 startup folder. If you put in the time to change startup items to suit your preferences, they can be a useful aid to productivity. Here are several different ways you can manage them.
⚠️ Please note : The process described below is the same in Windows 11 as it is in Windows 10. However, bear in mind that we’ll be using screenshots from Windows 11, so your UI may look a little different.
How to Enable or Disable Programs Running at Startup via Task Manager
The most user-friendly way to stop apps from opening on startup in Windows 11, and the method most people know, uses the Task Manager app. Task Manager presents a nice list of all startup apps that you can easily sort. Here’s how to get to it:

How to Change Startup Items via the Windows 11 Startup Folder
You can also add or remove items from startup using the Windows 11 startup folder. While not every startup item will show up here for you to remove, some will in the form of shortcuts. You can delete these shortcuts or add new ones depending on what you want to do. Here’s how:

How to Delete Startup Programs in Windows 11 via the Registry Editor
If you have a particularly aggressive startup app, or Task Manager isn’t working, it may be necessary to delete its startup entry in the Registry instead. Here’s how you can do that:

To change startup programs for your current user, visit the following registry locations until you find the app, then right-click it to delete its registry entry:
If you want to remove it for all users, visit the following instead:

How to Change What Apps Open on Startup via Settings
Another user-friendly way to change startup programs in Windows 11 is through its settings UI. This option was first added in later Windows 10 builds and is thankfully still there in Windows 11. Here’s how you can use it:

How to Add or Remove Startup Programs via an App’s Advanced Options
If you know exactly which app you want to start or stop running on startup, you can often change it through its advanced options. Helpfully, the Apps & Features menu gives you a search bar, which makes it easier to find what you’re looking for:

How to Run Microsoft Store Apps at Startup in Windows 11
If you’ve tried to add Microsoft Store apps to your startup list via the method above, you may have realized that it’s not so simple. Some Windows 11 apps don’t have th e “Advanced Options” fly-out. Instead, you can drag them into your startup folder by following the steps below:

How to Disable the Startup Delay
With that, you should know how to change startup programs in Windows 11 via a variety of methods. However, if they’re starting too slowly, you may want to check our existing tutorial on how to disable startup delay for autostart programs . This will remove the ten-second delay you’re experiencing.

How to Let (or Stop) Apps from Running in the Background
While you’re configuring your apps, you may also want to change which can run in the background. You can do so by following our dedicated tutorial on the matter.

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The ultimate guide to keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11
Want to get work done faster on your PC? These Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts can help you do things faster without reaching for your mouse.
Quick Links
Use windows 11 features and apps with keyboard shortcuts, keyboard shortcuts for multitasking and window management, file explorer keyboard shortcuts in windows 11, keyboard shortcuts for dialog boxes, keyboard shortcuts for the taskbar, other general keyboard shortcuts in windows 11.
Most users are familiar with using their computer with a keyboard and mouse. After all, this is the most intuitive method for most people. The mouse makes it easy to know what you're pointing at, selecting, and clicking, so even first-timers don't take too long to get the hang of it. But for proficient users, the keyboard can be a much more powerful tool, and it allows you to get things done faster. That's why there are a ton of keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11 that help with exactly that, and we've compiled a list of them to help you out.
Keyboard shortcuts can do all kinds of things, whether that's something as simple as copying text or taking a screenshot, opening your notifications, and more. Some updates, like Windows 11 version 22H2, also add new features, and they can have keyboard shortcuts to go along with them. Here are the ones you need to know.
You may already know the Windows key on your keyboard for opening the Start menu, but did you know you can combine it with all kinds of other keys to open specific apps and features in Windows 11? Here are the most notable things you can do with this key.
- Windows key + A — Open the Quick Settings panel. This lets you turn Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplane mode, and more features on or off. You can also adjust the brightness of your screen and computer volume in this panel.
- Windows key + C — Open Chat with Microsoft Teams. This new feature in Windows 11 gives you a quick panel to see your recent messages and contacts in Microsft Teams, plus you can start meetings and calls directly from here.
- Windows key + D — Show or hide the desktop. Showing the desktop means all your apps are no longer visible, and hiding it restores all your apps in their correct place.
- Windows key + E — Open File Explorer.
- Windows key + F — Open the Feedback Hub and immediately take a screenshot. This lets you more easily send feedback to Microsoft about a problem you may have encountered.
- Windows key + Alt + B — Turn HDR on or off. This requires an HDR-compatible monitor and a recent version of the Xbox Game Bar app.
- Windows key + Alt + R — Start recording a video of your app or game using the Xbox Game Bar.
- Windows key + H — Launch voice typing. This allows you to dictate text rather than write it by hand.
- Windows key + Pause — Open the About page in Settings. This includes information about your computer hardware and Windows itself.
- Windows key + K — Open the Cast panel. This lets you connect to wireless displays that support Miracast.
- Windows key + Alt + K - Mute your microphone in apps that support Call Mute (includes Teams for work and school, Unigram, and others).
- Windows key + L — Lock your PC. This keeps all your apps open, but requires you to unlock your PC before using them again.
- Windows key + Shift + M — Restore your minimized windows. This only works if you're still on the desktop.
- Windows key + N — Show the notification center and calendar. This is a new keyboard shortcut in Windows 11.
- Windows key + O — Lock device orientation. For tablets and convertibles, this prevents the display from rotating when you rotate your PC.
- Windows key + P — Change the display mode for multiple monitors. If you have multiple displays connected, you can choose to only have one of the screens active, duplicate the display across all screens, or use the screens to extend your display area.
- Windows key + R — Open the Run dialog. This allows you to open any app on your PC, as long as you know the name of the executable file for the app.
- Windows key + S — Open Windows Search. You can search for files, apps, and search the web here.
- Windows key + Shift + S — Take a screenshot using the Snipping Tool. After pressing the key, you can still choose your preferred capture mode, including free form, rectangle, window, and full-screen (this includes all connected monitors).
- Windows key + Ctrl + C — Turn color filters on or off. This feature needs to be enabled in the Accessibility settings first, and it lets you change how colors are displayed to account for various forms of color blindness.
- Windows key + V — Open your clipboard history. This allows you to see multiple items you've copied, including text, links, and images. Out of the box, this feature is disabled, but you can turn it on from here, too.
- Windows key + W — Open the Widgets panel. This new Windows 11 feature contains widgets for things like the weather, OneDrive photos, calendar, and more. You can also see news from topics you're interested in here.
- Windows key + X — Open the Quick Link menu (equivalent to right-clicking the Start icon on your taskbar). This contains links to system features like Settings, File Explorer, Task Manager, and more.
- Windows key + Y (Windows Mixed Reality devices only) — Switch input between Windows Mixed Reality and the desktop.
- Windows key + Z — Open the snap layouts panel. This feature, added in Windows 11, makes it easier to put multiple apps side by side on your screen.
- Windows + . (period) or ; (semi-colon) — Open the emoji panel. This lets you add emoji to any text field.
- Windows + , (comma) — Peek at the desktop. Your desktop is only visible as long as you hold one of the keys after pressing them, then your windows are restored.
- Windows key + Ctrl + F — Search for PCs on your network. This is meant for Azure Active Directory domains.
- Windows key + Shift + Spacebar — Cycle backwards through the list.
- Windows key + Ctrl + Spacebar — Switch to the last used input method.
- Ctrl + Shift — Switch to a different keyboard layout if multiple are available (for the same language).
- Ctrl + Spacebar — Turn the Chinese IME on or off (if the Chinese language is installed).
- Windows key + Ctrl + Enter — Turn on Narrator. This accessibility feature reads on-screen elements to make navigation easier for those with vision impairments.
- Windows key + - (minus) — Zoom out with the Magnifier.
- Windows key + Esc — Close the Magnifier.
- Windows key + / (forward slash) — Begin IME reconversion.
- Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + B — Wake up your PC from a blank or black screen.
- Windows key + Alt + PrtScn — Take a screenshot of the active game or window and save it into a file. This feature uses the Xbox Game Bar, and files are saved in the Videos library, in a folder called Captures (by default).
- PrtScn — Take a full-screen screenshot and copy it to the clipboard, so you can paste it somewhere else without saving it as a file. You can also go to the Settings app > Accessibility > Keyboard to set the PrtScn key to open the Snipping Tool (making it the same as Windows key + Shift + S )
- Ctrl + Esc — Open the Start menu.
- Ctrl + Shift + Esc — Open the Task Manager.
If you have multiple apps open, keyboard shortcuts can be a much more effective way of managing them, whether it's switching from one to the other or snapping them side-by-side. Here are a few ways you can manage your open apps with your keyboard.
- Windows key + Tab — Open Task View. This displays all your open apps as tiles so you can choose one to focus on. It also displays your virtual desktops.
- Alt + Esc — Cycle through windows in the order in which they were opened.
- Ctrl + Alt + Tab — View all your open apps so you can choose one with the keyboard arrows. This is similar to Task View, but doesn't display your virtual desktops and is only visible in your current active monitor.
- Alt + F4 — Close the active window or app. If used on the desktop, this opens the Windows power menu.
- Windows key + Up arrow — Maximize the active window so it takes up the entire desktop.
- Windows key + Alt + Up arrow — Snap the active window to the top half of your monitor. This is a new shortcut in Windows 11 and it will prompt you to choose an app to snap on the bottom half.
- Windows key + Down arrow — Set the active window to a smaller size if it's maximized. Hide the window into the taskbar if it's not maximized.
- Windows key + Alt + Down arrow — Snap the active window to the bottom half of the screen. If the active window is currently taking up the entire screen, it will be made into a smaller size first, then you can press the keys again to snap it. This will prompt to choose an app for the top half if there isn't one yet.
- Windows key + Left arrow — Snap the active window to the left half of the screen.
- If you hold down the Windows key after snapping an app to half the screen, you can use one of the other arrows to snap the app into a quarter of the screen. You can also press the same arrow repeatedly to move windows to different monitors (still taking up half the screen).
- Windows key + Home — Minimize all windows except the active window. Press again to restore the minimized windows.
- Windows key + Shift + Up arrow — Stretch the active window to take up the entire vertical space, keeping the same width (for non-maximized windows). The same shortcut with the Down arrow reverses this.
- Windows key + Shift + Right arrow or Left arrow — Move the active window to a different monitor.
- Windows key + Ctrl + D — Create a new virtual desktop
- Windows key + Ctrl + Left arrow or Right arrow — Switch between virtual desktops to the left or right.
- Windows key + Ctrl + F4 — Close the current virtual desktop. Any open apps are moved to the next virtual desktop in line.
The File Explorer is one of the core features of Windows 11, as it lets you view and manage all your files. There are a few shortcuts you can use to make this experience easier and faster using a keyboard.
- Alt + D — Set focus to the address bar.
- Ctrl + E or Ctrl + F or F3 — Set focus to the search bar.
- Ctrl + N — Open a new window (also works in some web browsers)
- Ctrl + T - Open a new tab (requires Windows 11 version 22H2). This feature also works on most web browsers.
- Ctrl + W — Close the active tab (in Windows 11 version 22H2) or window.
- Ctrl + mouse scroll wheel — Change the size of folder and file icons. Scrolling up makes icons bigger, scrolling down makes them smaller.
- Ctrl + Shift + N — Create a new folder.
- Num lock + * (asterisk) or + (plus) — Display all the subfolders in the current selected folder on the siderbar.
- Num lock + - (minus) — Collapse an expanded folder.
- Alt + Enter — View properties of the selected file or folder.
- Alt + P — Show the preview panel.
- Alt + Left arrow or Backspace — Go back one page (also works in some apps like web browsers)
- Alt + Right arrow — Go forward one page (also works in apps like web browsers)
- Alt + Up arrow — View the parent folder of the current active folder.
- Ctrl + Spacebar — Select individual items while navigating
- Shift + (arrow) — Select consecutive items starting from the currently selected one. In grid-style layouts, the up and down arrows select entire rows of items. If you start moving in the opposite direction, the last selected item(s) is/are deselected.
- Left arrow — Collapse an expanded folder or select the parent folder of the currently selected one.
- Home — Go to the top of the current page (works in various other apps).
- End — Go to the bottom of the current page (also works in multiple apps).
Some apps can generate dialog boxes, which can include menus, properties pages, and more. Depending on the complexity of the dialog box, you may be able to use a few keyboard shortcuts to navigate it.
- F4 or Spacebar — Display items in an active list.
- Arrow keys — Select a button in a group of buttons or option in a list.
- Spacebar — Select or deselect an active item if it's a checkbox.
- Ctrl + Shift + Tab — Switch backwards through tabs
- Shift + Tab — Move backward through the options on the current page.
- Alt + (letter) — Select the option with the corresponding underlined letter in its description.
Using the taskbar in Windows 11 can also be made easier using keyboard shortcuts. Here are a few key combinations that can help you select taskbar items more quickly.
- Windows key + T — Cycle through apps on the taskbar (open or pinned)
- Windows key + (number) — Start the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number. If the app is already running, switch to that app.
- Windows key + Shift + (number) — Start a new instance of the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number, even if one is already open.
- Windows key + Ctrl + (number) — Switch to the last active window of the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
- Windows key + Alt + (number) — Open the Jump List for the app pinned to the taskbar in the position indicated by the number.
- Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + (number) — Open a new instance of the app located at the given position on the taskbar as an administrator.
- Shift + left mouse click — Open a new instance of the selected app.
- Ctrl + Shift + left mouse click — Open the selected app as an administrator.
- Shift + right mouse click — Open the window menu for the selected app
- Ctrl + left mouse click (on an app with multiple windows open) — Cycle through the open windows for the app
- Windows key + B — Set focus to the first icon in the taskbar corner. If no apps are displaying an icon, focus is set to the overflow menu icon.
There are tons of keyboard shortcuts for actions that can be useful in different parts of Windows 11 or in different apps. Whether you want to copy and paste text or files, refresh a page, and so on, here are some extra shortcuts you may find useful.
- Ctrl + A — Select all text or items in a document, page, or window.
- Ctrl + D — Delete the selected text or item(s).
- Ctrl + X — Cut the selected item or text.
- Ctrl + C — Copy the selected item or text.
- Ctrl + V — Paste copied or cut content from the clipboard.
- Ctrl + Z — Undo your last action.
- Ctrl + Y — Redo an undone action.
- F2 — Rename the selected file or folder.
- F4 — Display the address bar list in File Explorer.
- Ctrl + F5 — In some web browsers, this refreshes the active window by forcing the browser to reload files even if they've previously been cached. This can help if changes have been made to a page but you're unable to see them in your browser.
- F6 — Cycle through screen elements of the active window or desktop.
- F10 — Activate the menu bar in the active window or app.
- Alt + F8 — Show your password on the Windows sign-in screen
- Alt + (letter) — When menus are being displayed, select the option with the corresponding underlined letter in the text.
- Shift + F10 — Open the shortcut/context menu for the selected item.
- Right arrow (in menus) — Move to the right on the menu, or open a selected sub-menu.
- Ctrl + F4 — Close the open document or tab in apps that allow you to open multiple documents or tabs at once, such as web browsers.
- Ctrl + E — Open search (in some apps).
- Ctrl + Left arrow — Move the text cursor to the beginning of the previous word.
- Ctrl + Down arrow — Move the text cursor down one paragraph.
- Alt + Shift + (arrow key) — When focus is set to a pinned app in the Start menu, move the pinned app in the direction of the arrow.
- Left arrow — Select the previous character. Right arrow deselects the last selected text.
- Right arrow — Select the next character. Left arrow deselects the last selected text.
- Up arrow — Select the previous line. Down arrow deselects the last selected line.
- Down arrow — Select the next line. Up arrow deselects the last selected line.
- Left arrow — Select the previous word. Right arrow deselects the last selected text.
- Right arrow — Select the next word. Left arrow deselects the last selected text.
- Up arrow — Select the previous paragraph. Down arrow deselects the last selected paragraph.
- Down arrow — Select the next paragraph. Up arrow deselects the last selected paragraph.
- Esc — Stop or leave an ongoing task (use varies by app).
And those are most of the keyboard shortcuts you may find useful in Windows 11. All of these shortcuts give you intuitive ways to navigate certain parts of the operating system or various apps without having to use a mouse, which can break focus due to having to reposition your hands. If you want to stay on the flow, keyboard shortcuts like this can truly speed up your work. If those are too hard to remember, Microsoft's PowerToys app includes a tool called Shortcut Guide, which lets you see the available shortcuts that use the Windows key (it doesn't work for other shortcuts, unfortunately).
With Windows 11 getting feature updates on an annual basis, you may find that some shortcuts may be added for different features. Keep an eye on our Windows 11 update tracker to learn more about the latest Windows 11 updates. And if you want to know what's new before everyone else, check out our guide to the Windows 11 features currently available in preview .
Windows 11 Keyboard shortcuts you should know
Complete list of windows 11 keyboard shortcuts, 1] keyboard shortcuts with windows logo key, 2] general keyboard shortcuts, 3] file explorer keyboard shortcuts.
In Windows 11 File Explorer, you can do your tasks quickly by using the following keyboard shortcuts.
4] Taskbar keyboard shortcuts
5] dialog box keyboard shortcuts, 6] command prompt keyboard shortcuts, 7] windows 11 settings app keyboard shortcuts.
By using the following keyboard shortcuts, you can navigate through the Windows 11 Settings app without using your mouse.
8] Keyboard shortcuts for Virtual Desktops
By using the following keyboard shortcuts, you can switch quickly between and close the specific virtual desktops.
9] Function keys shortcuts in Windows 11
How do i see all keyboard shortcuts, [email protected].

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How to Change Screen Resolution in Windows 11 (4 Ways)
While Windows comes with its own recommended display settings, they might not work properly for you if you’re using a different monitor or aren’t used to the current display in general. When this happens, you can always change your screen resolution in Windows 11 to the one that suits you the best.

Changing screen resolution in Windows 11 isn’t all about downgrading. You can easily change your display to 1920×1080 resolution to get the best picture results. If your monitor and device hardware support higher formats, you might also go for the 2560×1440 resolution. This way you can get the best out of your current setup.
So, read on as we explore four different ways of changing screen resolution on Windows.
1. Change Screen Resolution Using Windows 11 Settings Menu
In Windows 11, you can control or change pretty much every feature and option using the Settings menu. So, let us check the current screen resolution in your Windows 11 device and change it to your preferred one using the Settings menu. Follow these steps to do it.
Step 1: Right-click on the Windows icon and open the Settings menu from the options.

Step 2: From the System tab, click on Display.

Step 3: Here you can see your current screen resolution. To change it, click on Display resolution.

Step 4: From the drop-down menu, select the resolution you want.

Step 5: Click on Keep changes to confirm.

This will change your screen’s display setting to the newly selected one.
2. Change Display Settings in Windows 11 Using Display Adapter Properties
Display adapters help convert memory information to display. And, as the name suggests, it also contains options related to your device’s display. Follow the below steps to change Windows 11 display settings using the display adapter properties window.
Step 1: Right-click on the Windows icon and open the Settings menu.

Step 2: Here, go to the System tab and click on Display.

Step 3: Scroll down and click on Advanced display.

Step 4: Click on ‘Display adapter properties’.

Step 5: Here, click on the ‘List All Modes’ button.

Step 6: From this window, select your preferred display mode and click on OK to select.

Step 7: Click on Apply and OK.

This will change the Windows 11 display settings to the selected mode.
3. Change Windows 11 Display Settings Using Intel Graphics Command Center
If your Windows 11 device uses Intel graphics, chances are there would be display settings controls available in the Intel Graphics Command Center. So, here’s how you can use the Intel Graphics Command Center to change resolution on windows 11.
Step 1: In the search bar, type Intel graphics and open the Intel Graphics Command Center from the search results.

Step 2: Here, go to Display and click on the General tab. Then, click on the Resolution drop-down.

Step 3: Select the screen resolution value you want.
Note: Once this is selected, your screen might flicker slightly as Windows shows you exactly how your screen will look with the selected resolution setting.

Step 4: Click on Keep to save the changes.

This will change the screen resolution settings in Windows 11.
4. Use NVIDIA Control Center to Adapt Windows 11 Display Resolution
If your Windows 11 device uses NVIDIA to power its graphics, you can use the NVIDIA Control Panel to make changes to your display resolution. Here’s how to do it.
Tip: Update your NVIDIA drivers before proceeding.
Step 1: Right-click on your desktop and click on ‘Show more options’.

Step 2: Here, click on ‘NVIDIA Control Panel’.

This will open the NVIDIA Control Panel. Here, go to the Task panel and expand the Display option. Then, click on Change resolution. Here, select your monitor and display resolution. Once this is done, click on Keep changes to make sure changes to your display resolution are saved.
How to Reset Display Settings to Default in Windows 11
If you’re having issues with your modified display settings, you can reset them to Windows default. Follow the below steps to do it.
Step 1: Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open the Settings menu.

Step 3: Click on Display resolution.

Step 4: Here, select the recommended display setting.
Tip: You can also change the Scale setting to the recommended percentage.

Step 5: Click on Keep changes to save these changes.

Once this is done, your Windows 11 display settings will be reset to the default resolution.
FAQs for Changing Windows 11 Screen Resolution
Depending on your monitor’s size, you can go for anything in between 1080p and 1440p screen resolution while gaming. While 6K and 8K monitors are available as well, most games don’t provide native-resolution support for them at the moment. So, if your game supports Full HD or 4K, depending on your budget, you can go for either and change your screen resolution accordingly.
While there are reports that changing your screen resolution to a lower one can help conserve battery, with the new generation machines, that might not be the case anymore. You can go for a lower screen resolution, but it might not have too much impact on your device’s overall battery life.
You can try updating your graphic card’s driver to see if this resolves the issue. However, if your monitor’s hardware is not compatible with the changed display settings, we would suggest either changing the screen resolution back to the previous one or getting a different monitor with a high refresh rate .
Outdated display drivers can cause issues when changing display resolution on Windows 11. In certain cases, this can also lead to the screen resolution getting locked. To fix this, ensure your display drivers are up-to-date. Additionally, you can also check and install the latest Windows and NVIDIA driver updates if updating display drivers doesn’t fix this issue. Once done, try changing the screen resolution again.
Change Your Screen Resolution
We hope that this article helped you to find and change the screen resolution in your Windows 11 device. If you’re looking to further customize your Windows 11 display, check out our article on how to rotate your screen on a Windows device .
Last updated on 10 March, 2023
The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.

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Windows 11 Tip: Know Your Keyboard Shortcuts
Paul Thurrott
- Aug 24, 2021

Using keyboard shortcuts is a key way to be more efficient while using Windows, and this is true on a number of levels, some of which aren’t immediately obvious. With Windows 11, most of the core keyboard shortcuts you know and love transition over, but there are some changes, and some new shortcuts too.
Before getting to those, let’s consider the efficiency angle.
There’s the obvious bit, where typing a keyboard shortcut—to open Start or File Explorer, to take (and save) a screenshot, or whatever—lets you perform an action without taking your hands off the keyboard as you work. This kind of thing is objectively more efficient, especially if you spend most of your time with your hands on the keys.
But there are other, less obvious, efficiencies to be had as well. In my book Windows 10 Field Guide , for example, I explain that hiding unnecessary taskbar entries like Search, Task View, Cortana, and more frees up space for the pinned apps you actually use every day. And if you know the keyboard shortcuts that launch these experiences, you can remove their taskbar entries without losing easy access to key functionality.
(You can and should also remove taskbar entries you will never use. For example, I always hide/remove People, Windows Ink Workspace, and Chat Now in Windows 10.)
Search is, perhaps, the best example. By default, the Search entry in the Windows 10 taskbar is a space-hogging search box. But that’s totally unnecessary: If you want to use Search, all you need to do is tap the WINKEY key on your keyboard and start typing. So getting rid of that superfluous search box gives you the most bang for your buck in taskbar space savings.
In Windows 11, these efficiencies carry forward. This system ships with superfluous Search, Task view, and Widgets icons that can all be safely removed since each has an associated keyboard shortcut. Search (WINKEY, start typing) and Task view (WINKEY + TAB) work as before, but Widgets … well, Widgets is new. You can type WINKEY + W to display the Widgets interface, even if its icon is not visible on the taskbar.
I’ve been investigating whether there are other new keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11, and while I’m not done with that yet, here are a few key examples:
Snap Layouts. If you mouse over the Maximize/Restore window button in any window’s title bar, you will see a new Snap Layouts flyout that displays the possible Snap window layouts you can use, based in part on your display’s orientation, resolution, and aspect ratio. But you don’t need to use a mouse to activate this feature: Just switch to the window in question (ALT + TAB or WINKEY + TAB) and then type WINKEY + Z.
Quick settings. Microsoft divided the Action Center from Windows 10 into two discrete UIs in Windows 11, Quick settings and Notifications/Calendar. And Quick settings picked up the old Action Center keyboard shortcut in Windows 11, which is WINKEY + A.
Notifications/Calendar. With notifications and the calendar flyouts now in its own UI, it needed a new keyboard shortcut. And it got one: WINKEY + N.
Chat. There’s a new Chat icon on the Windows 11 taskbar, which launches a simple front-end to Microsoft Teams. The good news? You don’t need it. Just type WINKEY + C to display the Chat window.
Are there other new/updated keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11? Yeah, probably. If you know of any, please let me know, as I’d like the Windows 11 Field Guide to be as accurate and useful as possible. Plus, I just want to know, as I use keyboard shortcuts all the time. And so should you.
Conversation 15 comments
<p>WINKEY + A activates the Taskbar Corner flyout, or whatever it’s called.</p>
<p>Quick Settings as he said above.</p>
<p>Win + W opens up widgets. I presume no one will ever use this one though. ?</p><p><br></p><p>And while not technically a new shortcut, they did remove the task manager from the start menu’s right click, so if people don’t know ctrl-shift-esc, they might want to commit that to memory. </p>
<p>When did they do that? I right clicked on the start menu and accessed it there yesterday. They removed it from the taskbar like it was in Windows 10. Is that what you mean?</p>
<p>Ever since I’ve been on Win 11, right clicking the taskbar only gives me item in the context menu: taskbar settings</p><p><br></p><p>On Windows 10, I get a whole smorgasbord of items: toolbars, search, show task view button, lock the taskbar, task manager, etc… </p>
<p>Oh, interesting. I see what you’re saying. You just have to physically right click on the Windows Logo to get them! How about that? I had no idea.</p><p><br></p><p>My apologies for the confusion. Old habits, I suppose.</p>
<p>An hidden feature that I discovered by accident is if you have a touchscreen, you can also display the widgets if you swipe in from the left side of the screen.</p><p>Also, dragging a window to the bottom of the screen no longer closes it (this was a thing in Windows 8, but it also works in Windows 10, not that Windows 10 ever tells you it also supports swipe gestures)</p>
<p>I just could not leave this without trying. As you said some Shortcut Keys have been around for a long time like <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">WIN+P, WIN+D and a few others. Not sure about the ones I have listed below, I found them by going over the Keyboard with only the WINKEY and one key on the keyboard. </span></p><p><br></p><p>WIN+F – brings up the Feedback Hub but will not close it. </p><p>WIN+X – brings up the Menu you get when Right Clicking the WINKEY Icon on the Taskbar – like this</p><p>WIN+V – brings up the Clipboard in Windows but will not close it – I think I knew this but forgot it. </p><p>WIN+U – brings up the Accessibility Window within Settings – will not close it</p><p>WIN+I – brings up System within the Settings Window – will not close it</p><p>WIN+H – to open the Dictation Toolbar – and will turn on and off the microphone</p><p>WIN+K – will open the Cast Available Display Window</p><p>WIN+M – Minimizes all open Windows but does not bring them back</p><p>WIN+. – Brings up the Emoji Window</p><p>WIN+Numerical Keys – begin opening items on the task bar starting on the left. In my case after the Chat Icon. You may have to experiment to determine the first item. My started with the 6<sup>th</sup> item in however the first 5 were WIN, Search, Task View, Widgets, and Chat. When I removed the Widgets Icon it started with the 5<sup>th</sup> one in from the left. For me this was Microsoft Edge Beta. </p><p><br></p><p>I am sure there are more using WIN+SHIFT+, or WIN+CTRL+ but some are too much to remember. </p><p><br></p><p>Enjoy</p>
<p>| <em>WIN+F – brings up the Feedback Hub but will not close it.</em></p><p><br></p><p>Because the Feedback Hub is a full-fledged program/process rather than provided by Explorer as desktop shell.</p><p><br></p><p>| <em>WIN+M – Minimizes all open Windows but does not bring them back</em></p><p><br></p><p>This one’s odd because [Win]+D shows the desktop AND, er, unshows the desktop. FWIW, [Win]+[Shift]+M unminimizes everything. Me, I don’t give a $#!* because [Win]+D is more than sufficient. If [Win]+M is there because min/restore differs between UWP and Win32 software, NBD for me since I don’t use UWP software.</p>
<p>I was looking for new/changed keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11. :)</p>
<p>Given some commenters have mentioned what MSFT removed from the taskbar’s context menu, maybe useful to remind everyone that [Ctrl]+[Shift]+[Esc] launches Task Manager, and when it doesn’t, Task Manager appears in the [Ctrl]+[Alt]+[Delete] menu.</p><p><br></p><p>On a tangent, %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start still exists, and one may add keyboard shortcuts to any of the .LNK shortcuts in it.</p>
<p>Win+Shift+S Brings up the snipping tool.</p>
<p>Amazing to me is the fact that the Ease of Access option to associate the Print Screen key with the Snip and Sketch tool is not on by default. I never press WIN+Shift+S anymore, it’s always Print Screen. Much easier.</p>
<p>It would be nice to see Microsoft release an app in it’s store detailing these new keyboard shortcuts for Windows 11 users to help them integrate it into their workflow. Oh. That’s right. I’m too ambitious for my own good.</p><p><br></p><p>BB</p>
<p>Quite so. Why settle for anything as old fashioned as better offline documentation or help files when one could put unused free disk storage to use on multiple megabyte size apps providing static <em>useful tips</em>?</p>
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How to change the keyboard language in Windows 11
Need a different keyboard layout to use special characters – for example for texts in a foreign language? One option is to insert them using the “Insert special characters” function, but that’s rather tedious. A more practical solution is temporarily switching the keyboard layout . Read on to find out how to change the keyboard language in Windows 11.
Change keyboard language in Windows 11: quick tutorial
Here’s how to install keyboard languages in windows 11, switch keyboard language via windows 11 taskbar, switch windows 11 keyboard language using key combinations.
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When you want to switch the default keyboard layout in Windows 11, you need to do the following:
- Open Windows settings.
- Call up the “ Time & language ” menu and find the “ Language & region ” option
- Click on “ Add language ” and install the desired keyboard layout.
- Change keyboard layout via taskbar or using the key combination [Win] + [Space] .
Switch the keyboard language in Windows 10 just as easily!
Step-by-step guide to change the keyboard language in Windows 11
Want to use an alternative keyboard layout? In Windows 11 you need to install the relevant language package in order to do so. Before you can switch the layout, you must first install the desired package. Once done, you can change the keyboard language of Windows 11. In the following, we will guide you through the entire process step by step.
Before you can change the keyboard language, you must install the language pack of your desired target language. To do this in Windows 11, follow these steps:
Step 1: Launch Windows Settings by clicking the Start menu icon and the “Settings” icon.
Step 2: Select the “Time & language” section and then press “ Language & region ”.

Step3: Click “ Add language ” and select the language you want to use as the new keyboard language. To continue, click “ Next ”.

You only need to install the language pack of the desired target language to switch the Windows 11 keyboard. You do not need to install the optional packages for speech output, speech recognition, or handwriting.
Step 4: Install the package by clicking the button with the same name.
After you’ve installed the language pack, you can set the appropriate keyboard layout in Windows 11. The operating system links to the corresponding settings menu in the taskbar – or more precisely in the information panel to the left of the date and time . The country abbreviation of the currently active keyboard will be shown here. For example, “ENG” signifies the US English layout. Click on the abbreviation to view available keyboard languages.
To change the Windows 11 keyboard language, select the desired layout by left-clicking . In the same way, you can undo the keyboard settings later if you want to revert back to the original layout.

If you tend to swap between languages regularly, it may be easier to use keyboard shortcuts. The following combinations are used to switch the language of a keyboard:
- [Alt] + [Shift]
- Windows key + Spacebar.
In both cases, hold down the first key and press the second key to switch through the available keyboard layouts. For example, hold down the Windows key and press the spacebar to move between entries in the layout listing. Tapping the spacebar a second time selects the next entry, and so on.
Want more tips on how to use Windows 11? Find tutorials and how-to guides on all things Microsoft in our Digital Guides:
- Create Windows 11 screenshot
- Windows 11 screen capture
- Start Windows 11 in safe mode
- Create Windows 11 backup

Windows shortcuts can help you save a lot of time when working on a computer. With a simple hand gesture, you can use shortcuts to perform recurring tasks. In this article, you will find a practical overview of the most important Windows keyboard shortcuts which will make your everyday life easier and working with Windows more convenient.

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Are you struggling with the font size in Windows 11? Luckily, you can change the text size via the “Accessibility” menu in the Windows settings. However, as of the Windows 10 Creators Update (1703) and Windows 11, this will result in scaling of all display items. App windows and menus are automatically adapted. Find out how to change the font size in Windows 11.

Pinning a website to the taskbar is super simple in Windows 11. This comes in handy when you’re working with multiple browsers at once or if you want to reach your most visited sites with just one click. While Edge makes pinning websites as taskbar icons very easy, Firefox and Chrome can be a little more tricky. We’ll explain how to do all of this.
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Launch PowerToys and click on "Keyboard Manager" on the left-hand side. Ensure that "Enable Keyboard Manager" is toggled to the "On" position — it should be by default. There are two choices: "Remap a Key" and "Remap a Shortcut." The names mostly speak for themselves.
To reassign a key Download and install the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center. Connect the keyboard that you want to configure. Select the Start button, and then select Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard Center. From the displayed list of key names, select the key that you want to reassign.
Click on the magnifying glass icon to bring up the Windows 11 search bar. Search for PowerToys and click the entry that appears. In PowerToys, locate Administrator mode in the General tab. If highlighted, click on Restart PowerToys as administrator in order to get the full capability of PowerToys.
You can change that keyboard shortcut by selecting it and clicking Edit Hotkey. To delete one, select it and click Remove Hotkey. You can set up hotkeys for launching Windows programs as well as third-party software. The C: > Windows > System32 folder path includes many of the built-in accessories.
Windows 11 Windows 10 Copy: Ctrl + C Cut: Ctrl + X Paste: Ctrl + V Maximize Window: F11 or Windows logo key + Up arrow Open Task View: Windows logo key + Tab Display and hide the desktop: Windows logo key + D Switch between open apps: Alt + Tab Open the Quick Link menu: Windows logo key + X Lock your PC: Windows logo key + L
Created on October 5, 2021 Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts Technical Level: Basic. Applies to: All Windows 11 editions. Revision: 5.0. In this article, I will be listing Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts that will help you to smartly use this operating system. Here, denotes Windows key. On older keyboards, it have sign.
How to customize Windows 11 Keyboard Shortcuts | Create your own Shortcut! TechNtech 4.87K subscribers Subscribe 451 39K views 1 year ago Windows 11 Hey Guys, Welcome back to TechNtech,...
Option One Assign Shortcut Key to Shortcut on Desktop 1 Right click or press and hold on the shortcut on your desktop, and click/tap on Properties. (see screenshot below) 2 In the Shortcut tab, perform the following actions: (see screenshot below) Click/tap in the Shortcut key field.
Click the Shortcut tab at the top of the Window, move the cursor to the Shortcut key area, then click on the keyboard shortcut you want to set, you can see shortcut keys appear in the box. Finally, click the Apply button, then click OK to close the window. Method2. Set up Hotkey by using Wise Hotkey.
Press the Win key and it brings up the Start menu. However, there are many things you can do with the Windows key combo shortcuts. For example, Win + R opens the Run dialog, Win + S open the Windows search bar, and Win + L locks your computer. Free Cheat Sheet: Download Our Free Windows CMD Commands Cheat Sheet
Press the "+" icon to create a new key remap. Click the dropdown to select the key you want to remap. Select the key you want to change (Key) and then the key or shortcut you want it to ...
Once enabled, hit the Windows key + G key to call up the Game bar. From here, you can click the screenshot button in the Game bar or use the default keyboard shortcut Windows key + Alt + PrtScn to ...
RELATED: Here's What Windows 11's Settings App Looks Like. Right-click empty space on your desktop and click "Personalization.". Scroll down a bit and select "Themes.". Scroll down again, then click "Desktop Icon Settings.". Select the icon you'd like to change, then click "Change Icon.".
To add a keyboard layout on Windows 11, use these steps: Open Settings. Click on Time & language. Click the Language & region page on the right side. Source: Windows Central (Image credit:...
Hold the Windows key and select a preferred keyboard layout using your mouse/touchpad cursor. You can also use the Left Alt + Shift key combination to change your computer's keyboard layout. Ctrl + Shift is another shortcut for changing the keyboard layout on Windows 11 devices. Change Touch Keyboard Layout
Here's how you can use it: Open settings. Press "Start" and press the settings cog in your pinned apps. Alternatively, if you don't have it pinned, press "Windows + I". Open the ...
Ctrl + W — Close the active tab (in Windows 11 version 22H2) or window. Ctrl + mouse scroll wheel — Change the size of folder and file icons. Scrolling up makes icons bigger, scrolling down ...
To use the shortcut, simply highlight the text you want to convert and press the "Shift" and "F3" keys at the same time. Each time you press the shortcut, the text will cycle through all lowercase, all uppercase, and sentence case (capitalizing the first letter of each sentence). If the keyboard shortcut doesn't work for you, or if you need to ...
We will list here the following keyboard shortcuts in Windows 11: Keyboard shortcuts with Windows logo key General keyboard shortcuts File Explorer keyboard shortcuts Taskbar...
Function Keys in Windows 11 in Laptop (i.e. Dell, Lenovo, HP, Acer, Asus) plays a vital role. You can easily enable or disable this feature with the help of ...
Win + M. Maximize all minimized windows on the desktop. Win + Shift + M. Minimize or maximize all but the active window. Win + Home. Snap the current app or window to the Left half of your display. Win + Left Arrow Key. Snap the current app or window to the Right half of your display. Win + Right Arrow Key.
Step 1: Press Windows + I on your keyboard to open the Settings menu. Step 2: From the System tab, click on Display. Step 3: Click on Display resolution. Step 4: Here, select the recommended ...
With notifications and the calendar flyouts now in its own UI, it needed a new keyboard shortcut. And it got one: WINKEY + N. Chat. There's a new Chat icon on the Windows 11 taskbar, which ...
Step 1: Launch Windows Settings by clicking the Start menu icon and the "Settings" icon. Step 2: Select the "Time & language" section and then press " Language & region ". Windows 11: "Language & region" menu in Settings Step3: Click " Add language " and select the language you want to use as the new keyboard language. To continue, click " Next ".