How to enable function keys on any laptop

Given the limited keyboard space on a laptop, almost all laptops have a row of function keys that perform two functions. By default, the function key row functions as media keys and control panel shortcuts for tasks like raising and lowering volume and brightness, adjusting fan speed and keyboard backlight, and for playing or pausing media.

This is useful, but it’s sometimes important to have function keys function as regular keys, especially if you’re a developer. F2 for renaming files or cells, F12 for the developer console, F3 for search, these are all useful shortcuts depending on your usage.

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Here’s how to enable function keys on your laptop:

Using the Fn key when needed

Pressing and holding the Fn key – usually on the bottom left of the keyboard – and then pressing a function key on the top row will trigger the alternate function of that key. For example, F12 might work as volume up by default, but pressing Fn+F12 will open the developer console on Chrome.

Toggling Fn

For a more permanent solution you can toggle the Fn lock. Not all laptops support this feature, but those that do will require some sort of combination of keys to lock the Fn key on or off, thereby toggling the function of the F1-F12 keys.

This varies by manufacturer, but the most commonly used combinations are Fn+Esc, Fn+Shift, and Fn+CapsLock. Experiment with the various combos and check your laptop’s user manual to confirm.

Proprietary software

Some laptop manufacturers include system management software. This includes Lenovo Vantage for Lenovo machines, MyAsus in the case of ASUS, and MSI’s MSI Centre. These apps will have an option to toggle Fn key status, which is usually found under ‘Customization’ or ‘Input device settings’, or some similarly named feature.

Advanced users

Advanced users should consider changing keyboard behaviour in the system BIOS. Boot into your laptop BIOS per manufacturer instructions, then look for a setting called ‘Legacy Function Key Settings’ or something to that effect. Here you should find an option to toggle the function key state.

Have fun tinkering with your laptop, just be aware that tweaking BIOS settings or messing with the Registry Editor and the like can cause your system to stop working. Only change advanced options if you know exactly what you’re doing.