My computer is opening multiple tabs

[aclaybrooks]

my computer is opening multipe tabs when I open one

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @aclaybrooks 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I understand the concern. When one click opens multiple browser tabs, the behavior can be related to keyboard input, mouse settings, browser extensions, corrupted browser data, or system files. 

Let's work through the troubleshooting steps below.

1. Check for a Stuck Keyboard Key A stuck Ctrl key can cause links to open in new tabs.

• Press the Ctrl key several times and ensure it moves freely.
• Disconnect any external keyboard if connected.
• Test using only the laptop keyboard.
• Open Notepad and verify that keys respond normally.

Check the Mouse or Touchpad A mouse button issue can trigger unintended actions.

• Disconnect any external mouse.
• Use only the touchpad and check if the issue continues.
• If using a wireless mouse, replace the battery and reconnect it.
• Clean around the mouse buttons if needed.

Test in a Different Browser Determine whether the issue is browser-specific.

• Open another installed browser.
• Click several links and observe whether only one tab opens.
• If the issue occurs in only one browser, continue with the browser-related steps below.

Disable Browser Extensions Extensions can affect tab behavior.

• Open the browser's Extensions or Add-ons page.
• Temporarily disable all extensions.
• Restart the browser.
• Test whether links now open normally.
• Re-enable extensions one at a time to identify any change in behavior.

Reset Browser Settings Restore default browser functionality.

• Open the browser Settings menu.
• Locate the Reset or Restore settings option.
• Reset the browser settings to their defaults.
• Restart the browser and test again.

Check for Background Key Combinations Accessibility features or keyboard shortcuts may interfere with browsing.

• Restart the computer.
• After restart, avoid pressing any modifier keys (Ctrl, Shift, Alt) while testing.
• Verify whether tabs continue opening unexpectedly.

Run HP Hardware Diagnostics Check the keyboard and pointing devices.

• Turn off the computer.
• Power it on and repeatedly tap F2.
• Open HP PC Hardware Diagnostics.
• Run:
  • Keyboard Test
  • Mouse/Touchpad Test
• Follow any on-screen recommendations if an issue is detected.

Check for Windows System Issues

• Search for Command Prompt.
• Right-click and select Run as administrator.
• Run the following command: sfc /scannow
• Allow the scan to complete.
• Restart the computer after the scan finishes.

Update Windows and HP Drivers

• Open HP Support Assistant or the HP support page for your model.
• Install available keyboard, touchpad, and chipset updates.
• Restart the PC after updates are applied.

If the issue remains, please share:

• Your HP computer model
• Whether the problem occurs in one browser or all browsers
• Whether you're using the built-in keyboard/touchpad or external devices

That will help us provide the next set of troubleshooting steps.

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye