The Function (Fn) key is a key on your computer keyboard which, by default, enables the secondary Fn action on a particular key, such as decrease brightness or volume or media mute, that is printed on it in blue, green, or another color. Some people get annoyed by having to press both the Fn and another key to perform an action. If you want to disable the Fn key so that you can press the dedicated key alone to perform the action, you can follow the below methods to disable the Fn key on your laptop.
Most laptops give users the choice of using the dedicated function key or the Fn + key action. So, if your laptop gives you that choice, you will find an option to disable the Fn key. You can access this option from the BIOS or directly from the keyboard shortcuts. If your laptop has a BIOS option to disable the Fn key, you can access it by pressing a specific key during the boot process. Depending on the brand and model of your laptop, the BIOS key can vary. It is often one of the F1 through F12 keys, the Delete key, or the Esc key. However, if your laptop doesn’t have a BIOS option to disable the Fn key, you can check for a key combination on your laptop that can do the same. For example, on some Dell laptops, pressing the Fn + Esc key combination toggles the Fn key behavior. Similarly, on some HP laptops, pressing the Fn + Caps Lock key combination does the same.
If the above methods do not work for you, you can try using a third-party utility to disable the Fn key. There are several free and paid utilities available online that can help you do this. Once you have downloaded and installed a utility, you can follow the on-screen instructions to disable the Fn key. However, before you download and install any third-party utility, make sure that it is compatible with your laptop and that it is from a trusted source.
Locating the Fn Key
The Fn key, short for function key, is usually located in the bottom row of your keyboard, next to the Ctrl key on the left and the Windows key on the right. It is typically identified by a blue “Fn” label or a small blue icon. On some keyboards, the Fn key may be located in a different position, such as next to the spacebar or in the top row of keys. If you cannot find the Fn key on your keyboard, consult your keyboard’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website.
Identify Fn Key Variants
Depending on the keyboard model and manufacturer, the Fn key may come in different variants:
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Fn Key | A single Fn key, typically located in the bottom row next to Ctrl. |
| Double Fn Key | Two adjacent Fn keys, usually found on gaming or multimedia keyboards. |
| Fn Lock Key | A separate key that toggles the Fn key behavior, allowing you to use the function keys without pressing Fn. |
Deactivating Fn Through BIOS Settings
To deactivate the Fn key through BIOS settings, follow these steps:
- Restart your computer and press the designated key (usually F2, F10, or Del) to enter the BIOS setup utility.
- Navigate to the “Configuration” or “Advanced” tab using the arrow keys.
- Locate the “Function Key Behavior” or “Action Keys Mode” setting and change it from “Function Key” to “Standard Function Keys.”
- Press F10 to save the changes and exit the BIOS setup utility.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Additional Tips:
- The specific key to enter BIOS setup may vary depending on your computer manufacturer. Refer to your user manual or the manufacturer’s website for more information.
- The location and phrasing of the "Function Key Behavior" setting may also vary between different BIOS versions. If you cannot find it, try searching for keywords such as "function key mode" or "action key behavior."
- If you encounter any issues or the steps above do not resolve the problem, refer to your computer manufacturer’s support website for assistance.
Disabling Fn in Windows Device Manager
To disable the Fn key in Windows Device Manager, follow these steps:
- Open Device Manager by pressing the Windows key + R and typing “devmgmt.msc”.
- Expand the “Keyboards” category.
- Right-click on the “Standard PS/2 Keyboard” or your specific keyboard device and select “Properties”.
- Go to the “Device Settings” tab.
- Uncheck the “Enable Fn Key as System Key” box.
- Click “OK” to save the changes.
Here are some additional details on Step 5:
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Enable Fn Key as System Key | When this setting is enabled, the Fn key will function as a system key, which means that it will be used to control system functions such as adjusting the volume or brightness. |
| Disable Fn Key as System Key | When this setting is disabled, the Fn key will not function as a system key, which means that it will be used to control the function keys. |
After you have unchecked the “Enable Fn Key as System Key” box, the Fn key will no longer function as a system key. This means that you will be able to use the function keys without having to press the Fn key.
Switching Fn Modes in macOS
In macOS, there are three different Fn key modes. You can choose the mode you want by pressing the Fn Key + Caps Lock keys simultaneously. The three modes are:
- Standard Function Keys: This mode disables the special functions on the F1 through F12 keys and makes them act as standard function keys.
- Special Functions: This mode enables the special functions on the F1 through F12 keys. The special functions vary depending on the Mac model. For example, on some Macs, the F1 key can be used to adjust the screen brightness, while on other Macs, it can be used to open Mission Control.
- Both: This mode allows you to use both the standard function keys and the special functions on the F1 through F12 keys. To use a standard function key, press the Fn key + the function key. To use a special function, press the function key without pressing the Fn key.
In addition to the three Fn key modes, there are also two modifier keys that can be used to change the behavior of the Fn key. These keys are:
| Modifier Key | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Fn Lock | When the Fn Lock key is pressed, the Fn key is always active, regardless of the Fn key mode. This allows you to use the special functions on the F1 through F12 keys without having to press the Fn key. |
| Control Strip | When the Control Strip key is pressed, the Touch Bar changes to display a set of controls that are specific to the current app. This allows you to access commonly used functions without having to use the Fn key. |
Remapping the Fn Key to Reduce Interference
If the Fn key’s default behavior is causing interruptions, you can remap it to another function or disable it altogether. Here’s a detailed guide to remapping the Fn key:
1. Identify the BIOS Key
Restart your computer and press the appropriate key during the boot-up process to enter the BIOS settings. Commonly used keys include F1, F2, F10, or Del.
2. Find the Fn Key Settings
Navigate through the BIOS settings and locate the section related to the keyboard or function keys. The options for configuring the Fn key may vary depending on your BIOS.
3. Change the Fn Key Mode
In the BIOS settings, there will usually be an option to change the Fn key mode. You may see options like “Standard Function Keys,” “Fn Lock,” or “Function Key Emulation.” Select the option that disables or remaps the Fn key.
4. Save Changes and Exit BIOS
Once you have made the desired changes, save the settings and exit the BIOS. Your computer will reboot, and the Fn key will now function as per the new configuration.
5. Using Third-Party Software
If your BIOS does not provide an option to remap the Fn key, you can use third-party software like AutoHotkey or SharpKeys to customize it.
6. Remapping Fn Key Combinations
Some keyboards allow you to remap specific Fn key combinations while leaving the standard Fn key behavior unaffected. Check your keyboard documentation or manufacturer’s website for instructions.
7. Using a Function Lock Key
Some laptops have a dedicated Function Lock key (FnLk) that toggles the Fn key’s behavior. When FnLk is enabled, the Fn key functions as standard function keys; when disabled, it acts as a modifier key.
8. Disabling the Fn Key
If you prefer to completely disable the Fn key, you can follow these additional steps:
- Enter Device Manager: Right-click the Windows Start button and select “Device Manager.”
- Locate Keyboard: Expand the “Keyboards” category and find your keyboard device.
- Disable Fn Key: Right-click the keyboard device and select “Disable device.” Confirm your choice in the pop-up window.
- Restart Computer: Reboot your computer for the changes to take effect.
| BIOS Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Standard Function Keys | Fn key disabled, standard function keys (F1, F2, etc.) enabled |
| Fn Lock | Fn key enabled as a modifier key, standard function keys disabled |
| Function Key Emulation | Fn key always enabled as a modifier key, even without being pressed |
Hardware-Based Fn Disabling on Certain Laptops
9. Advanced BIOS Settings (Only for Certain Laptops)
If the above methods haven’t worked, try checking your laptop’s BIOS settings. This is an advanced option, so proceed with caution. Here’s a detailed guide:
a. Restart your laptop and press the required key to enter BIOS settings (usually F1, F2, Del, or Esc).
b. Look for a section related to “Function Keys” or “Fn Key Behavior.” This option may be in the “Advanced” or “System Configuration” menu.
c. Find the setting that controls Fn key behavior and change it to “Disabled” or “Standard Function Keys.” The specific option name may vary depending on your BIOS interface.
d. Save the BIOS settings and restart your laptop. The Fn key should now be disabled.
| BIOS Manufacturer | Key to Enter BIOS | Menu Option |
|---|---|---|
| HP | F10 | Advanced > Device Options > Function Key Behavior |
| Dell | F2 | System Configuration > Advanced BIOS Settings > Function Key Behavior |
| Lenovo | F1 or Fn + F1 | Configuration > Function Keys |
Note: Not all laptops support advanced BIOS settings for Fn key disabling. Check with your laptop manufacturer for compatibility.
How To Turn Off Fn
The Fn key, short for function key, is a special key on most keyboards that allows you to access secondary functions of other keys. For example, on many laptops, the Fn key can be used to adjust the volume, brightness, or other settings. However, sometimes you may want to turn off the Fn key so that you can use the other keys without having to press Fn first.
There are several ways to turn off the Fn key. One way is to look for a dedicated Fn Lock key on your keyboard. If your keyboard has one, simply press the Fn Lock key to toggle the Fn key on or off.
Another way to turn off the Fn key is to change a setting in your BIOS. To do this, restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup menu. The BIOS setup menu is typically accessed by pressing a key such as F2 or Del during startup. Once you are in the BIOS setup menu, look for a setting related to the Fn key. This setting may be called “Fn Lock” or “Fn Key Behavior.” Change this setting to “Disabled” or “Off.” Save your changes and exit the BIOS setup menu. Your Fn key will now be disabled.
People Also Ask About How To Turn Off Fn
How do I turn off Fn lock on Dell laptop?
To turn off Fn lock on a Dell laptop, press the Fn + Escape (Esc) keys together. This will toggle the Fn lock on or off.
How do I turn off Fn lock on HP laptop?
To turn off Fn lock on an HP laptop, press the Fn + Caps Lock keys together. This will toggle the Fn lock on or off.
How do I turn off Fn lock on Lenovo laptop?
To turn off Fn lock on a Lenovo laptop, press the Fn + Spacebar keys together. This will toggle the Fn lock on or off.
How do I turn off Fn lock on Toshiba laptop?
To turn off Fn lock on a Toshiba laptop, press the Fn + F12 keys together. This will toggle the Fn Lock on or off.
