Option to remap the default function keys

[humbertosoriano]

I'm having problems with the alternative F shortcut keys on my new laptop.

The f1 key is overlayed by a "?" question mark key, which opens a bing search for "how to get help in windows 10": it actually links to "http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=528882", which then redirects to the bing search. I have tried third party remapping programs, but they recognize the key as the left windows key, so I don't want to even try to remap it, in case I accidentally remap the actual left windows key.

A similar problem occurs with the f5 key. It is mapped as the keyboard backlight switch, which I occasionally use, but much less than the actual f5 refresh funcion. Key remapping software also recognized it as the left windows key.

Basically, I'd like to be able to remap the ? key to the default f1 function or to something else of my choice, and reverse the f5 key, so that I have to press fn+f5 to toggle the backlight or press just the f5 key for refreshing.

For the record, I find the default ? key function to be completely useless, and I really don't understand why HP would ever think this would help anyone. Even the most basic users will know how to do a web search for how to get help. The other issue with the f5 key is a more personal user issue of mine. Either way, it would be make much more sense for HP to provide a utility to remap these default keys, as many power users such as myself would like to be able to change them easily through software. In lieu of this, I'd like any sort of advice on a workaround or other solution.

[ChrisM_L]

Have you already updated to the latest BIOS and then checked the various options for one related to keeping the F keys' default function to be F1-F12 , requiring Fn to be held down to get the backlight function, help etc. to be used?

[humbertosoriano]

Yes, I have searched the web pretty intensly for answers to this question. I know about the bios options, but as I explained quite clearly in my original post, my intention is to change only two F keys, not all of them. I use the media and screen brightness keys regularly, and having to use the Fn key to use them would be worse.