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How to Install Input Language Keyboard in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jan 19, 2022 Updated Aug 13, 2026 3 min read
How to Install Input Language Keyboard in Windows 11
How to Install Input Language Keyboard in Windows 11

An input language keyboard in Windows 11 lets you type in different languages by adding special characters and layouts for non-English typing. Windows 11 supports over 100 languages, and you can install a new keyboard layout in under 5 minutes right from your system settings.

Adding a new layout helps you type accented letters like ‘é’ or entirely different scripts without buying a new physical keyboard. You can quickly switch between your installed languages at any time using a simple keyboard shortcut.

⚡ Quick Answer

Install a new input language keyboard by going to Settings Time & language Language & region. Click the three dots next to your language, select Language options, and then click Add a keyboard to choose your desired layout. You can then switch between keyboards using Win+Space.

Why Install a Language Keyboard?

Installing a language keyboard in Windows 11 lets you type in different languages easily, which is helpful for school, work, or talking with friends. You can switch between keyboard layouts using shortcuts or the taskbar once it’s installed, making it simple to write in multiple languages on your computer.

Windows 11's language input flexibility allows users to switch between keyboard layouts using shortcuts or the taskbar after installation. This feature enables writing in multiple languages on one computer. Users do not need to change overall system settings for this language input flexibility.

How to Install Language Keyboard in 🪟 Windows 11

You can install a language keyboard in Windows 11 by opening your computer’s Settings and going to Time & language, then choosing Language & region. Press the Win and ‘I’ together or click Start and then Settings to open the menu. From there, click Time & language, then select Language & region to find and add the language you need.

  1. Open your computer settings by pressing Win+I or by clicking Start, then Settings.
    windows 11 start settings
    windows 11 start settings
  2. In the Settings menu, click on Time & language.
  3. Select the Language & region tile.
    windows 11 display language change
    windows 11 display language change
  4. Look for your preferred language in the list. Click the three dots () next to it and select Language options.
    Windows 11 input language keyboard change settings
    windows 11 change input language keybaord
  5. Scroll down to the Keyboards section. Click the Add a keyboard button.
    Installed keyboards options in Windows 11
    installed keyboards windows 11 buttons
  6. Choose the keyboard layout you want from the list to install it .
    Options for installing input language keyboard in Windows 11
    windows 11 install input language keyboard options

Once you install a language, the default keyboard for that language is usually added automatically. You can verify your new setup under the keyboard section for your preferred language.

Selecting keyboard options in Windows 11 settings
windows 11 keyboard options select

How to Switch Between Keyboards

Switching between keyboards in Windows 11 is simple using either a keyboard shortcut or the language icon shown on your taskbar. To use the shortcut, press and hold the Windows key, then tap the Spacebar to go through your installed typing languages. Alternatively, click the language abbreviation like 'ENG' on the right side of your taskbar to pick a different keyboard.

  • Keyboard Shortcut: Press and hold the Windows key and tap the Spacebar to cycle through your installed input methods.
  • Taskbar Icon: Click the language abbreviation (e.g., ENG or FRA) on the right side of your taskbar to select a different keyboard.
    Switching keyboard input language from taskbar in Windows 11
    windows 11 switch keyboard input language taskbar

Display Language vs. Input Language

📝Good to Know
Your display language changes Windows menus, while your input language, or keyboard layout, only affects what you type.

How to Remove a Keyboard Layout

If you no longer need a specific layout, follow these steps:

  1. Go to Settings > Time & language > Language & region.
  2. Click the three dots (...) next to the language.
  3. Select Language options.
  4. Find the keyboard under the Keyboards section.
  5. Click the three dots (...) next to the keyboard and select Remove.

Summary

Adding a new keyboard layout in Windows 11 lets you type in other languages easily, and you can switch between them using shortcuts or the taskbar.

Why is my keyboard language not changing?

If your keyboard language is not changing, ensure you have multiple layouts installed in your settings. Try using the Windows + Space shortcut to toggle manually. If it still fails, restart your computer to refresh the Input Method Editor (IME) services or check for pending Windows updates.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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