Volume keys not working

[L4meck]

My computer volume keys are not responding to adjust volume levels but do different functions such as navigating tabs. I find it very frustrating as I have to adjust volume in settings or YouTube volume if I am watching videos. Is there someone who can help, please. 

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @L4meck,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

I understand you're experiencing an issue where the volume keys on your HP laptop are no longer adjusting the sound levels. Instead, they’re performing different actions, like switching browser tabs, making daily tasks feel clumsy and inconvenient.

Step 1: Check the Action Keys Setting

On many HP laptops, function (Fn) keys can either perform their special actions (like volume, brightness) or act as standard function keys (F1–F12). If they’re currently acting as standard keys, they won’t control the volume.
 

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI:
   • Turn off your laptop.
   • Turn it back on and immediately press the Esc key repeatedly until the Startup Menu opens.
   • Press F10 to open BIOS Setup.
2. In BIOS, look for “Action Keys Mode” (usually under the System Configuration tab).
3. If it's set to Disabled, change it to Enabled.
4. Save changes and exit (F10 to save and exit).

Now your volume keys should work without needing to hold down the Fn key.

Step 2: Update Keyboard and Hotkey Drivers

Outdated or missing drivers can cause this issue.

1. Open HP Support Assistant (search for it in the Start menu).
2. Go to Updates and check for any keyboard, hotkey, or BIOS updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

Step 3: Test in Safe Mode

If it still misbehaves:

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the Boot tab and check Safe Boot.

Restart your computer and see if the volume keys behave normally in Safe Mode.
If they do, a third-party app might be conflicting — consider reviewing recently installed software.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, as it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

VikramTheGreat

HP Support