Unable to toggle function (Fn) key behavior

[Alex_Kinderov]

Hi all,

I have been experiencing difficulty toggling the function (Fn) key behavior on my HP monoblock (all-in-one) computer. Previously, I used a specific key combination to switch the Fn key mode, and this change was typically indicated by a blinking light on the Caps Lock key. However, I can no longer recall the exact key combination, or it may have been altered due to a recent software update.

I have attempted the following key combinations, both by pressing them simultaneously and by holding them for an extended period, but none have successfully changed the Fn key behavior:

• Fn + Left Shift
• Fn + Esc
• Fn + Caps Lock
• Fn + Num Lock (Note: My keyboard does not have a Num Lock key)

Additionally, I explored the BIOS setup to modify the function key behavior. Unfortunately, there is no option available in the System Configuration menu or any other menu to adjust relevant setting such as:

• Action Keys Mode
• Fn Key Switch
• Function Key Behavior

Given these challenges, I am seeking assistance to find an alternative method to change the Fn key behavior. The current setting is causing inconvenience, as many software applications rely on function keys without the need to press the Fn key. Any guidance or solutions to address this issue would be greatly appreciated.

====

Computer model:  HP Pavilion All-in-One 24-k0xxx

OS: Windows 11

Key board photo attached hereinActual keyboard photo

[zoey7886]

@Alex_Kinderov, Welcome to the HP Support Community!  

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your How to Toggle the Fn Key Behavior! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.  

To change the behavior of the Fn (function) key on HP computers, you may need to modify settings in the BIOS. Here are detailed steps to toggle the Fn key behavior:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Enter BIOS Setup:

• Turn off your computer.
• Turn it back on and immediately press the F10 key repeatedly until the BIOS setup screen appears. On some HP models, you might need to press the Escape key (Esc) and then F10 from the startup menu.

Navigate to the System Configuration Tab:

• Use the arrow keys to navigate to the "System Configuration" or "Advanced" tab.

Locate the Action Key Mode:

• Find the "Action Key Mode" or "Action Keys" option. By default, this is often enabled to allow the function keys to perform their secondary actions without needing to press the Fn key.

Change the Action Key Setting:

• Change the setting to disable Action Key Mode if you want to use the function keys without pressing the Fn key.

Save and Exit:

• Press F10 to save the changes and exit the BIOS setup.

Example of Common BIOS Paths:

• System Configuration > Action Keys Mode
• Advanced > Action Keys Mode  

Hope this helps!

Take care, and have an amazing day!  

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, Please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!  

Regards, 

[Alex_Kinderov]

Dear ZOEY7886,

In reply to your "you may need to modify settings in the BIOS" I have to regretfully conclude that you haven't read my initial inquiry and explanation where I have clearly mentionied:

Quote:

Also, there is no option to change the behavior in BIOS setup.

Not in System Configuration menu, nor in any other menu below can be found

Action Keys Mode

FN Key switch

Function Key behavior

Or alike

:Unquot

In another words there is no option to change Fn Key Behavior in BIOS setup.

Are you sure you are an HP Employee?

Regards, 

[zoey7886]

@Alex_Kinderov, Thank you again for the update and the photo of your keyboard—it's extremely helpful in narrowing things down. I hear your frustration, and I’m genuinely sorry for the back-and-forth earlier. I understand how inconvenient it can be when the Fn key behavior disrupts your workflow, especially with no visible BIOS option and previous key combos no longer working.

📌 Quick Observations:

Looking at your keyboard, it appears to be an HP wireless keyboard designed specifically for All-in-One desktops, without a dedicated Fn Lock or Num Lock key, and the function row does seem to default to media keys instead of standard F1–F12 behavior.

🔍 Before We Proceed Further – A Few Questions to Better Assist You:

Do you have HP Support Assistant installed?
This utility may include a keyboard settings section depending on your model. If you already have it, have you explored it for any Fn or Hotkey options?

Has your keyboard been recently updated through Windows Update or HP software?
Some Windows updates (or even optional driver updates) can override or reset keyboard firmware behavior, especially for peripherals like these.

Can you check Device Manager > Keyboards > Driver details?
Look for something like HID Keyboard Device or HP Wireless Keyboard – and let me know the driver provider and version. That can give us clues on whether a 3rd-party utility or HP package is involved.

I’m committed to helping you figure this out the right way this time, and I appreciate your patience. Once you answer the questions above, I can narrow down the best approach tailored to your setup.

Warm regards,

[Alex_Kinderov]

Hi, below are some answers:
 

Looking at your keyboard, it appears to be an HP wireless keyboard designed specifically for All-in-One desktops, without a dedicated Fn Lock or Num Lock key, and the function row does seem to default to media keys instead of standard F1–F12 behavior.

ANSWER:

YOU ARE RIGHT HERE.

Do you have HP Support Assistant installed?
This utility may include a keyboard settings section depending on your model. If you already have it, have you explored it for any Fn or Hotkey options?

ANSWER:

Yes, I have explored it for Fn or Hotkey options but havent found any such controls there.

Don't you, as an HP Employee / HP Support Agent know about your — HP Support Assistant — software functionality so that you have to ask your client to confirm it?

Has your keyboard been recently updated through Windows Update or HP software?
Some Windows updates (or even optional driver updates) can override or reset keyboard firmware behavior, especially for peripherals like these.

ANSWER:

Windows updates automatically.

Can you check Device Manager > Keyboards > Driver details?
Look for something like HID Keyboard Device or HP Wireless Keyboard – and let me know the driver provider and version. That can give us clues on whether a 3rd-party utility or HP package is involved.

ANSWER:

Please see screenshot below

Provider: Mictrosoft, Version 10.0.26100.1882

Thank you for your help

[zoey7886]

@Alex_Kinderov, Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

We're here to help you tackle that toggle function (Fn) key behavior! Don't worry, we've got your back! 

To get you the best assistance, we need to take this conversation to a private chat. We're inviting you to a private message to protect your privacy and ensure that any sensitive information remains confidential. 

To access your private message, just click the little blue envelope icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile, next to your profile name.  

We're looking forward to helping you resolve this issue! 

Stay tuned, and thanks for your patience! 

Regards, 

[Alex_Kinderov]

Why toggling Fn key behavior requires private chat communication? Just tell me how to fix it.

What a ridiculous HP support, don’t you know your own product?!