Windows key not working

Check the keyboard’s Windows-key lock

1. Look for a lock indicator, a dedicated lock-symbol key or a gaming-mode control in the keyboard’s software.
2. Use the unlock action in your exact model’s manual. For example, Corsair K100 AIR has a dedicated Windows lock key. Other models use different controls.
3. Check the keyboard’s Windows/Mac switch if it has one. Select Windows mode when using Windows.

Separate the key from the Start menu

1. Leave the game or full-screen app and press the Windows key on the desktop.
2. Click Start with the mouse. If the button opens Start but the physical key does not, continue with lock and mapping checks.
3. If clicking Start also fails, save your work and restart Windows. Follow Windows support for a persistent Start-menu problem.

Check software remaps

1. If PowerToys Keyboard Manager is installed, disable that module temporarily or close PowerToys. Retry the key.
2. Compare a normal keyboard profile with your saved gaming profile. Preserve your original mappings before changing them.
3. If only one game blocks the key, review its input settings and the keyboard profile it activates.

Compare another keyboard or computer

Try another keyboard on this PC, or the affected keyboard on another PC. Record which comparison changes the behavior before requesting model support.