How to Keep Num Lock on Permanently in Windows 11

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How to Keep Num Lock On Permanently in Windows 11

Num Lock is a key found on most computer keyboards that enables the numeric keypad on the right side to function as a set of numbers. For many users, especially those who frequently use calculators, spreadsheets, or data entry, having Num Lock turned on by default can greatly increase efficiency. However, on some Windows systems, Num Lock resets and turns off each time the computer boots up or wakes from sleep. If you’re using Windows 11 and would like to keep Num Lock on permanently, this detailed guide will walk you through the various methods to ensure that it stays on as you desire.

Understanding Num Lock Behavior in Windows 11

Before diving into the methods for keeping Num Lock enabled, it’s essential to understand how Windows 11 manages the Num Lock state. The behavior can vary depending on several factors:


BIOS or UEFI Settings

: The system’s firmware may have settings that determine the default state of Num Lock upon startup.


Windows Registry Settings

: The Windows operating system can override certain keyboard settings through the registry.


Keyboard Drivers

: Some keyboard drivers offer their configurations that might affect how Num Lock behaves.


Power Settings

: The way your computer enters and exits sleep mode can also affect the Num Lock state.

By examining these areas, you can find the best solution that works for your specific setup.

Method 1: Enable Num Lock in BIOS/UEFI

One of the most effective ways to keep Num Lock on is by adjusting the settings in your BIOS or UEFI firmware interface. Many systems have a specific option that allows you to set the state of Num Lock when the computer boots.


Restart Your Computer

: Press the restart button or use the “Restart” option available in the Start menu.


Enter BIOS/UEFI

: During the boot process, look for a prompt on the screen. It usually says something like “Press F2 to enter Setup” or “Press DEL for BIOS Setup.” Common keys to enter BIOS include F2, DEL, ESC, or F10. Your system may use a different key, so refer to your user manual if unsure.


Find Num Lock Option

: Once inside the BIOS or UEFI, navigate through the menus. Look for an option related to keyboard settings. It could be labeled as “Boot Options,” “Keyboard Features,” or something similar.


Change Num Lock State

: Find the setting for Num Lock and change it to “On” or “Enabled.”


Save and Exit

: Make sure to save your changes before exiting. This is usually done by pressing F10, but always look for the specific key on the screen.


Reboot

: Your computer will restart, and Num Lock should now be enabled by default on boot.

Method 2: Changing Windows Registry Settings

If the BIOS method does not work for you, adjusting the Windows Registry is an alternative approach. The Windows Registry contains various parameters that Windows uses to configure hardware and software settings, including the default state of Num Lock.

Modifying the registry can have unintended consequences, so you should back it up before making changes. Here’s how you can do it:


Open Registry Editor

:

  • Press

    Win + R

    (Windows Key + R) to open the Run dialog.
  • Type

    regedit

    and hit Enter.


Navigate to the Key

:

  • Go to the following path:

    HKEY_CURRENT_USERControl PanelKeyboard


Edit the Initial Keyboard Settings

:

  • Find the

    InitialKeyboardIndicators

    entry.
  • Double-click on it to edit.
  • Set the value to

    2

    (this will keep Num Lock on).


Apply Settings in Current User and Default User

:

  • You may want to check both:

    HKEY_USERS.DEFAULTControl PanelKeyboard


Set InitialKeyboardIndicators to 2

: Ensure the same setting exists here as well.


Reboot Your Computer

: Restart your computer to see if the changes have taken effect.

Method 3: Using the Keyboard Properties

Sometimes, the keyboard settings in Windows can be the culprit regarding the Num Lock behavior. Checking your keyboard properties is a straightforward option.


Open Settings

: Press

Win + I

to open the Settings app.


Access Devices Settings

: Click on

Devices

.


Go to Typing

: In the left-hand menu, select

Typing

.


Advanced Keyboard Settings

: Scroll down and find the

Advanced keyboard settings

link. Click on it.


Adjust Additional Settings

: Ensure that all settings related to input languages and keyboard layouts are correct. Sometimes switching layouts can turn off Num Lock unexpectedly.


Reboot to Test

: After making changes, it’s a good idea to reboot your system.

Method 4: Modify Ease of Access Settings

Windows 11 includes various accessibility features that might influence keyboard behavior. Ensuring that these settings are correctly configured can help resolve any issues with the Num Lock key.


Open Settings

: Press

Win + I

.


Select Accessibility

: Choose

Accessibility

from the side menu.


Keyboard Settings

: Click on

Keyboard

.


Check Toggle Keys

: Ensure that the

Toggle Keys

option is turned off. This feature can sometimes interfere with the default state of Num Lock.


Reboot Your Computer

: Restart your machine for these changes to take effect.

Method 5: Using a Third-Party Tool

If you find it cumbersome to adjust system settings or registry entries, third-party software can help manage keyboard settings, including Num Lock state.


AutoHotkey

: A powerful, open-source scripting language for Windows that allows you to write scripts to automate various tasks, including keyboard input.


Creating a Script

:

  • Download and install AutoHotkey.
  • Create a new text file and rename it to

    NumLock.ahk

    .
  • Open the file and add the following script:

    SetNumLockState, On
  • Save the file and double-click it to run the script. Optionally, add this script to your startup folder to ensure it runs every time you start your machine.


KeyTweak

: A keyboard remapping tool that can effectively allow you to toggle the Num Lock key.


SharpKeys

: Similar to KeyTweak, this tool can help remap keys on your keyboard, allowing for greater control over key functions including Num Lock.

Method 6: Update Keyboard Drivers

Outdated or problematic keyboard drivers can cause unexpected behaviors, including issues with the Num Lock key.


Open Device Manager

: Right-click the Start button and select

Device Manager

.


Find Keyboards

: Expand the

Keyboards

section.


Update Driver

: Right-click on your keyboard device and select

Update driver

. Opt for the automatic search for updated driver software.


Reboot Your Computer

: After updating, restart your system.

Conclusion

Keeping Num Lock on permanently in Windows 11 is a matter of making the right adjustments across various settings domains, including BIOS configuration, registry edits, keyboard properties, and driver updates. Each method presented allows for a different approach, depending on your comfort level and specific hardware setup.

As you follow this guide, keep in mind that your experience may vary based on your unique configuration, but with patience and the steps outlined here, you should find a solution that works for you. Whether via BIOS settings, registry changes, or utilizing software tools, the goal is to enhance your workflow and establish a more efficient computing experience.

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