Broken CTRL button

[carisaeli]

So I have been having the same issue for about 6 months to a year but have only had the computer for about 2 maybe 3 years. The ctrl button does not "perform" any of the needed task. I have deleted the keyboards and followed all other recommendations. I was wondering if there is anything I can do to fix this. I have worked with HP Support Assistant and the Guided Troubleshooting does not allow me to follow the walk through process to troubleshoot the issue. I am desperately in need of a resolution. 

[WAWood]

@carisaeli 

Wish I had good news for you, but I don't.

Unlike external keyboards, the ones on laptops are not made to be rugged, but instead, to be light. Thus, if you get five years out of a laptop keyboard, you're doing very well.

Individual keys are generally not replaceable, but if the keys are not broken, then the issue is more likely with the membrane underneath the keyboard and that has to be replaced as a unit.

Here's some troubleshooting steps you can try: http://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c03738933

If you are experienced at laptop repairs, you can often replace a keyboard for $25 for a new one and a half-hours work. I have done this on older HP laptops.

But, if you're NOT, there is a serious risk of breaking fragile connectors and cables doing this -- so I do not recommend it.

Instead, I would recommend you hunting down a local laptop repair place to have THEM replace the keyboard. Should only be an hour's work or less.

An alternative, if you want to experiment, would be to map a different key as the Ctrl key.  A free utility known as FastKeys, that is available online, allows you to do that.  You might want to check that out before getting a replacement keyboard.