Keyboard letters don’t work only numbers

[Berryfarmer]

I tried to login today and none of my letter keys work, only numbers. Num lock turned on and off. No help. FN/escape. No help. Reboot. No help. Can’t log in to get to key set up or investigate. 

[Raj_05]

Hi @Berryfarmer,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your keyboard is stuck in a state where only numeric keys are functional, which could be caused by hardware or software issues. Since you can't log in, here are a few steps to troubleshoot the issue.

Use an On-Screen Keyboard

• At the login screen, look for the Ease of Access icon (usually in the bottom-right corner).
• Select On-Screen Keyboard.
• Use it to enter your password and log in.
• Once logged in, test the keyboard to see if it responds. If it doesn’t, proceed with the other steps.

Check for Physical Issues

• Inspect the keyboard for debris or stuck keys, especially if certain keys feel unresponsive.
• If necessary, gently clean the keyboard using compressed air.

Test in Safe Mode

• Restart the laptop.
• Repeatedly press the F8, Esc, or the key designated for accessing the boot menu during startup.
• Select Safe Mode from the boot options.
• Once in Safe Mode, test the keyboard. If it works here, the issue might be software-related.

Connect an External Keyboard

• Plug in a USB or Bluetooth keyboard to log in.
• If the external keyboard works, the issue might be with the internal keyboard's hardware or drivers.

Reset Keyboard Settings

If you log in:

• Open Settings > Time & Language > Language > Check the keyboard layout.
• Ensure it’s set to your region (e.g., US QWERTY).

[Raj_05]

Update or Reinstall Keyboard Drivers

• Right-click Start > Device Manager > Expand Keyboards.
• Right-click your keyboard and select Uninstall Device.
• Restart the laptop to allow Windows to reinstall the drivers.

Perform a Hard Reset

Sometimes a hard reset can resolve keyboard malfunctions:

1. Turn off the laptop completely.
2. Disconnect any external devices.
3. Hold the Power button for 15–30 seconds to drain any residual charge.
4. Power it back on and test the keyboard.

Check for BIOS Keyboard Response

• Restart the laptop and press the BIOS/Setup key (usually F2, F10, Del, or Esc) during startup.
• In the BIOS, test if the keyboard responds. If it works in BIOS but not in Windows, the issue is likely software-related.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

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Alden4

HP Support