The F1-F12 keys at the top of your keyboard can perform two functions. On their own, they perform one action, but they function differently when used with the Function (Fn) key. For the latter, you need to press the Fn key together with any function key each time you want to perform a different operation.
If you don’t want to keep holding down the Fn key, Windows gives you the option of locking it permanently. This will allow you to access the secondary operations of F1-12 without having to press the Fn key. Below, we discuss in detail several ways to lock and unlock the Fn key.
Why should you lock or unlock the Fn key?
The F1-F12 keys can perform a secondary function other than their default behavior when used in conjunction with the F1 key. However, you have to press the Fn key every time you want to perform an optional function. To make it more convenient, you can lock the Fn key, which will make it permanently active.
When you want to use the default functions again, you can just unlock the Fn key again.
How to Lock and Unlock the Function Keys in Windows
Below, we have listed different ways to lock and unlock the Fn key in Windows.
1. Use keyboard
On many keyboards, the Esc key acts as a function padlock key. If this is the case with your keyboard, you’ll see a small padlock icon on the Esc key.
To lock the Fn key, simply press the Fn key and the Esc key simultaneously. Once the lock icon lights up, the Fn key has been successfully locked. To unlock, you can press both keys together again.
2. Access BIOS Settings
You can also change your computer’s hardware settings through the BIOS settings. Here’s how you can lock or unlock the Fn key through the BIOS.
3. Use Windows Mobility Center
In the third method, we’ll be using the Windows Mobility Center, which allows you to access common features like brightness and volume. If you don’t have the Function Key Row section in Mobility Center, this method may not work for you.
This should allow you to use the function keys without having to press the Fn key. If you no longer wish to use the Fn key and think you would be better off disabling it, you can use the KeyTweak app to perform this action. For more information on KeyTweak, check out our guide on how to disable specific keys on your keyboard in Windows.
Better manage your Fn key on Windows
The Fn keys improve productivity, but you can make them more convenient by permanently enabling them. The various methods above will help you make this transition easily. If you don’t use the Fn key often, it’s best to permanently disable it.
Windows 11 offers Auto HDR, which has been a cause of great joy for some users. But for those who are unsure as to what this means, what is Auto HDR and why is it important?
Here’s everything you need to know about how to turn on Windows 11’s Auto HDR feature, if it’s right for you, and a quick introduction to what Auto HDR is.
What is Auto HDR on Windows 11?
“HDR” stands for “high dynamic range”. It is a type of image and video capture and display that maintains image quality, especially in shots where one item is much closer than another. It makes the image or video more realistic. Auto HDR is a setting on some devices and platforms that automatically upscales HDR-compatible content.
Does Windows 11 Have Auto HDR?
The HDR feature of Windows upscales HDR-compatible videos and games while you play them. Windows 11 makes this process even easier with the inclusion of Auto HDR.
However, having Windows 11 doesn’t mean you have access to Auto HDR. In fact, there are plenty of reasons why you might not be enjoying true HDR, even with an HDR-compatible monitor. Luckily, you can check whether your display is HDR-compatible through the device settings.